Salah Sparks Debate: Is He the Greatest Attacker in Premier League History?

As the debate rages on regarding the best attacking player season in Premier League history, one name has surged to the forefront: Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool forward has started the 2024-25 season in breathtaking form, establishing a remarkable minutes-played-to-goal-contributions ratio. His performances in the first 18 games have not only placed him atop the statistical charts but have also reignited discussions about what constitutes the pinnacle of individual attacking prowess in the league's illustrious 33-year history. While Salah's current feats are undeniably impressive, the argument for "best ever" encompasses a wider scope of achievement, influence, and context. A central question emerges: Should individual excellence be weighed against contributions to a team's success? For instance, should a player who consistently outshines teammates be held in higher regard than one whose critical goals contribute to a championship victory? One player often remembered in this context is Didier Drogba. The Ivorian striker’s 2009-10 season stands out, where he scored 37 goals in 44 appearances, leading Chelsea to a league and FA Cup double. Drogba’s versatility as a forward not only made him a crucial element of his team's success but also transformed tactical approaches in the league, encouraging teams to adopt a single-striker system in a way that reshaped the Premier League landscape. Gareth Bale's 2012-13 season for Tottenham Hotspur also deserves recognition. Despite Spurs finishing fifth, Bale's 21 goals from 33 league appearances came while the team heavily relied on him for creativity and finishing. His ability to score spectacular goals, even when every opponent knew he was the focal point of Spurs' attack, showcased a level of excellence that defines true greatness. Thierry Henry's tenure at Arsenal is another cornerstone in this discussion, particularly the 2002-03 season, where he registered 24 goals and 20 assists—a true testament to his all-around attacking capability. However, it was his 2003-04 season that further solidified his legacy, as he scored 30 league goals, helping Arsenal become the legendary 'Invincibles.' His sheer dominance that season earned him the accolade of player of the year, highlighting an era in which he was virtually unmatched. In a different vein, Eric Cantona's influence in the 1995-96 season cannot be overlooked. Returning from suspension, he scored crucial goals that propelled Manchester United to the title, showcasing how pivotal moments can define a player's legacy beyond pure statistics. His goals were not only about numbers; they were about timing and impact that shaped a season’s narrative. Fast forward to more recent history, Erling Haaland’s debut season with Manchester City in 2022-23 shattered records. His 36 goals in 35 appearances, complemented by a treble-winning campaign, elevated him to a status seldom seen in the league. Haaland's ability to score with remarkable efficiency has redefined expectations for strikers in the modern game. Among notable mentions is Luis Suarez's remarkable 2013-14 season at Liverpool, where he scored 31 goals and assisted 12 others. His electrifying style and ability to change matches single-handedly almost guided Liverpool to an improbable title. Each of these players brought something unique to the Premier League tapestry, making the debate around the "best season" as rich and convoluted as the history of the league itself. As fans, pundits, and players alike weigh in, the question remains: what truly defines the best season? Is it raw statistics, the ability to dominate despite adversity, or the capacity to change the course of a title race? As we continue to witness the remarkable talents within the league, the dialogue will undoubtedly evolve, keeping the spirit of competition alive and thriving.