African footballers have played a transformative role in shaping the legacy of the English Premier League (EPL), bringing flair, power, and unforgettable moments to England’s topflight.
From lifting trophies to breaking records, these stars not only became household names in Europe but also inspired a new wave of talent across the African continent.
Here’s a look at the top African goal scorers in Premier League history:
1. Mohamed Salah – 188 Goals
A modern Premier League great, Mohamed Salah has rewritten history since arriving at Liverpool in 2017.
The Egyptian winger has bagged 188 league goals, making him the highest-scoring African in EPL history.
With multiple Golden Boot wins and a pivotal role in ending Liverpool’s 30-year title drought in 2020, Salah’s legacy is firmly cemented at Anfield.
2. Sadio Mané – 111 Goals
A dynamic forward with blistering pace and incredible work ethic, Sadio Mané scored 111 Premier League goals across his stints with Southampton and Liverpool.
Alongside Salah, he formed one of the league’s most feared attacking duos, contributing heavily to Liverpool’s domestic and European success.
3. Didier Drogba – 104 Goals
A legend at Chelsea, Didier Drogba tallied 104 goals during his time in the Premier League.
The Ivorian striker was renowned for his strength, leadership, and clutch performances in big games — often delivering when it mattered most. A true icon of African football.
4. Emmanuel Adebayor – 97 Goals
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Towering and unpredictable, Emmanuel Adebayor lit up the Premier League with 97 goals, playing for Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham, and Crystal Palace.
The Togolese striker combined finesse with physicality, often dominating defenders with his presence and technique.
5. Yakubu Aiyegbeni – 95 Goals
Nicknamed “The Yak”, Yakubu Aiyegbeni was one of Nigeria’s finest strikers in England.
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With 95 goals across clubs like Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, Everton, and Blackburn Rovers, Yakubu was the embodiment of consistency and finishing prowess in front of goal.
6. Riyad Mahrez – 82 Goals
The Algerian magician, Riyad Mahrez, scored 82 goals during his time with Leicester City and Manchester City.
A key figure in Leicester’s historic 2016 title run, Mahrez later enjoyed even more success under Pep Guardiola, winning multiple league titles while dazzling with his skill and left-footed finesse.
7. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – 69 Goals
Explosive and clinical, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang racked up 69 Premier League goals during his time with Arsenal.
The Gabonese forward claimed the Golden Boot in 2019, sharing it with Salah and Mané — a powerful statement of African dominance in the league.
8. Wilfried Zaha – 68 Goals
A cult hero at Crystal Palace, Wilfried Zaha notched 68 goals, becoming the club’s highest scorer in the Premier League era.
The Ivorian winger’s flair, creativity, and match-winning ability made him one of the most exciting talents in the league for over a decade.
These African stars have done more than score goals. They’ve elevated the Premier League, inspired generations, and proven that talent from the continent belongs on the world’s biggest stages.
