Premier League Golden Boot race: Erling Haaland takes early season lead (See top-ten)

As the curtain rises on the 2023/24 Premier League season, Norwegian striker, Erling Haaland, once again looms large in the race for the prestigious Golden Boot award.

The striker, who etched his name in history with a record-breaking 36 goals in the previous campaign, continues to exhibit his scoring prowess, asserting dominance over his peers.

Haaland’s extraordinary form from the last season cast a shadow over the Golden Boot competition, making it appear one-sided as his rivals seemingly played catch-up. Now, as the new season unfolds, Haaland stands as both a symbolic and physical giant, capturing the attention of football enthusiasts eager to witness who will challenge him for the coveted top-scorer accolade.

Here’s a glance at the early contenders for the Golden Boot:

1. Erling Haaland | Manchester City | Goals: 14
The Norwegian sensation has kicked off the 2023/24 season in blistering form, maintaining his status as the league’s leading marksman. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Haaland seems poised to retain his Golden Boot crown.

2. Mohamed Salah | Liverpool | Goals: 11
Despite Liverpool’s sluggish form in the previous season, Salah managed an impressive tally of 19 goals. The determined Egyptian forward is keen on elevating both his and the Reds’ fortunes, positioning himself as a formidable contender for the Golden Boot.

3. Son Heung-min | Tottenham Hotspur | Goals: 10
Son, a co-recipient of the Golden Boot with Salah in the last season, experienced a dip in form. However, with the arrival of Ange Postecoglou and creative midfielder James Maddison, he aims to rediscover his goal-scoring prowess for Spurs.

4. Jarrod Bowen | West Ham United | Goals: 9
Amidst changes at West Ham, Bowen is anticipated to be a crucial figure in the final third. The departure of Declan Rice places the onus on Bowen to emerge as a star, building on his impressive displays from the previous season.

5. Ollie Watkins | Aston Villa | Goals: 8
Watkins, a consistent performer for Villa, played a pivotal role in their Europa League qualification. Under Unai Emery’s guidance, he seeks to maintain his goal-scoring form, contributing to Villa’s quest for success.

6. Hwang Hee-chan | Wolves | Goals: 8
Hwang, despite struggling in the final third last season, aspires to make a significant impact for Wolves. His versatility, tenacity, and mobility may prove vital as he strives to deliver crucial goals for his team.

7. Dominic Solanke | Bournemouth | Goals: 8
Solanke stood out as a key performer for Bournemouth last season, significantly contributing to their survival. His goal-scoring ability positions him as a linchpin for the Cherries in the current campaign.

8. Callum Wilson | Newcastle | Goals: 7
At 31, Wilson defies age expectations with consistent goal-scoring performances. Following a prolific season, the former Bournemouth poacher aims to continue his remarkable run for Newcastle.

9. Alexander Isak | Newcastle | Goals: 7
After a delayed start due to injury, Isak made a substantial impact for Newcastle in the latter part of the previous season. With flair, audacity, and lethal finishing, he aims to establish himself as a top striker in the Premier League.

10. Bryan Mbuemo | Brentford | Goals: 7
Mbuemo, an integral part of Brentford’s attack, aims to step up in the absence of Ivan Toney. His well-rounded talent, showcased by nine goals and eight assists last season, makes him a key player for the Bees.

As the season unfolds, football enthusiasts can anticipate a thrilling battle among these talented goal-scorers, injecting excitement into the race for the Premier League Golden Boot.