Halaand has midas touch in race for Golden Boot
Think golden touch, think golden boot and think Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, who is the rightful favourite to make it three golden boot awards in four seasons.
Haaland, in the two seasons he scored the most goals in the league, influenced a successful Manchester City title chase. They were champions on both occasions, with Haaland’s 36 goals in the 2022/23 season an EPL record.
Liverpool’s Mo Salah, with 29, won the golden boot last season for champions Liverpool.
There is a clue in the history of who has recently won the award, with both Haaland and Salah part of teams that have won the title in the season they have been tops.
Most UK books have Halaand near evens. He is a predator and knows the way to the back of the net. Even last season, when City wobbled and Haaland’s ankles wobbled as much with injury, the big Norwegian scored 22 goals.
Some called it a poor season, which illustrates Haaland’s striking power. His perceived poor form is most strikers’ best.
Salah
Salah was at the heartbeat of Liverpool’s surge toward the title, won in manager Arne Slot’s first season in charge.
The UK books have him at 11/8 and 11/10, with the broader market range 6/4-11/10.
Halaand gives some return, but you are not giving up your day job if he takes another golden boot. The odds don’t allow for it and your return is capped.
Yield is what you want and Salah gives decent returns, more than double that of Halaand.
For those chasing yield, respect Salah, a four time winner. He is Liverpool’s primary finisher and penalty taker, with the latter task a consideration when thinking of a golden boot winner.
Salah, on the eve of the 2025/26 EPL opening round, sits 9/2-5/1.
Isak
Alexander Isak is a bolter, but a good outsider. He is at 11/2-6/1 before a title campaign ball has been kicked.
Cole Palmer is another name to consider. The market has him 14/1–20/1 depending on the book.. He’s Chelsea’s best technician, first in line for pens, and trending up after a breakout.
The market in the week leading into the opening round is strong on Halaand, but it is giving you options that are realistic with a handful of chasers.
The South African books mirror the UK ranges on outrights, with Haaland at 6/4-11/8 and Sala at 9/2-5/1.
Liverpool on Friday, the 15th August, start their title defence at Anfield against Bournemouth and Halaand’s City
If you want a safe bet, go Halaand, but if you want some edge, with upside, split the stake each way Palmer and a cover on Salah.
If you chase pre-season friendlies, you are making a mistake. If you are going to chase, do it with conviction, and chase penalty takers and players with the highest shorts per 90 minutes.
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