Being a striker or attacking midfielder is about more than just scoring goals or providing assists. In modern football, top forwards are expected to contribute across the pitch—including in defense.
Gone are the days when attacking players could simply wait upfield for the ball. Today’s elite forwards press high, track back, and help their teams regain possession, often acting as the first line of defense. Some even help prevent goals at the back, making them truly complete players.
In this article, we’ll highlight 8 world-class forwards who not only shine in front of goal but also make a big impact without the ball.
1. Antoine Griezmann (Atlético Madrid & France)
Griezmann continues to redefine what it means to be a complete forward.
His game intelligence, tireless running, and ability to track back and intercept passes make him a key cog in Atlético’s pressing system. Whether playing as a second striker or deeper in midfield, Griezmann contributes heavily to both offense and defense.
2. Roberto Firmino (Al Ahli & Brazil)
Firmino was the engine of Liverpool’s pressing game under Klopp—and he brings that same intensity to Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli.
Known for his defensive pressing, intelligent positioning, and selfless play, Firmino wins possession high up the pitch and often starts counter-attacks with his quick decision-making.
3. Thomas Müller (Bayern Munich & Germany)
Still going strong in 2025, Müller is the embodiment of football IQ.
His famed “Raumdeuter” role—finding and exploiting space—also extends to defensive phases. He tracks runners, presses intelligently, and contributes to defensive structure, especially during transitions and set-pieces.
4. Karim Benzema (Al-Ittihad & France)
Benzema, now a seasoned veteran in the Saudi Pro League, still shows moments of brilliance—on both ends.
He drops deep to link play, wins aerial duels, and often helps out in midfield battles. His understanding of positioning and timing makes him a subtle yet effective defensive asset.
5. Gerard Moreno (Villarreal & Spain)
Gerard Moreno is much more than a finisher.
His intelligent pressing, defensive work rate, and team-first mentality have made him a vital player for Villarreal. He often sets the tone for pressing and doesn’t hesitate to help in defensive zones.
6. Marcus Rashford (Manchester United & England)
Rashford might be known for explosive goals, but his work ethic off the ball is just as impressive.
He frequently tracks back, puts in tackles, and helps defensively on the wings. His speed also makes him dangerous in transition—both in attack and when recovering defensively.
7. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich & England)
Kane’s 2024–25 season with Bayern has shown why he’s one of the best strikers in the world.
Not only is he lethal in front of goal, but he often drops into midfield to help defensively and build up play.
His leadership and ability to win headers also make him crucial during defensive set-pieces.
8. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona & Spain)
Yamal is only 17, but he’s already one of the best two-way wingers in football.
In Barcelona’s historic 2024–25 treble-winning season—La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup—he played a key role not just with goals and assists, but with his pressing and defensive recovery runs.
Now a Ballon d’Or contender, his maturity and game intelligence are astonishing for his age.
Final Thoughts
The modern game demands more from forwards than ever before. These ten players have proven that helping your team win isn’t just about scoring—it’s also about pressing, tracking back, and defending when it matters most.
Also Read:
- Best Attacking Defenders in the Premier League
- Best Attacking Midfielders in the Premier League
- Best Football Prodigies to Watch in 2025