Early-season front-runners emerge in the race for the European Golden Shoe

Elite trio early locks to challenge for award

Kane, who finished behind Mbappe for the award last season, looks determined to go one better this time around. The England captain was on target again over the weekend, scoring in Bayern’s 3-0 win away to Eintracht Frankfurt to extend its unbeaten run to six matches.

His seamless adaptation to life in Germany has been remarkable, combining clinical finishing with trademark intelligence and movement. Under Vincent Kompany, Bayern’s attack continues to thrive, and Kane is the focal point of it all.

Haaland remains an ever-present threat. The Norwegian striker once again made the difference for Manchester City, netting the only goal in a 1-0 win over Brentford on Sunday.

His physical dominance, sharp positioning and calmness in front of goal ensure he will remain a constant presence near the top of the leaderboard throughout the season, as he continues to average close to a goal per game in English soccer.

Meanwhile, Mbappe, fresh off his first European Golden Shoe triumph last season, is thriving in Madrid. The Frenchman bagged a goal and an assist in Madrid’s 3-1 home win over Villarreal at the weekend, following a historic Champions League hat-trick last week. Despite sharing attacking duties with Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, Mbappe remains Madrid’s most decisive force.

With domestic campaigns still in their early stages, others may yet join the chase. But for now, Europe’s most prolific forwards are setting a blistering pace, and if current form is any indication, the 2025–26 Golden Shoe race could go right down to the wire between three modern greats.