Major League Soccer Forwards - Power Rankings 2023

By Alex Windley

Week three in MLS featured excellent attacking play.

There were blowouts, dazzling displays of dribbling skill and wonderful shots from a variety of players. In week three, big name talent was showcased by several players. Here you are 90min MLS Forward Power Rankings…

10.Jared Stroud

The city of St. Louis is doing great! While players like Eduard Lowen and Joao Klauss may get the headlines, Jared Stroud held his own against a decent Portland Timbers team.

The 26-year-old played well, completing 100% of his dribbles and scoring in the 45th minute. He may not be the most talked about player on that roster, but Stroud deserves credit for a solid performance.

9. Cristiano Benteke

Christian Benteke’s arrival in MLS came as a surprise. A player of his caliber is still more than capable of playing in Europe, but since he arrived in DC he has been one of their most dangerous players.

While he didn’t score against Orlando City, his hold-up player and physicality were instrumental in DC United’s 1-1 draw. With a goal to his name already in the season, Benteke’s presence at the top will only make DC better.

8. Jacob Shaffelburg

Nashville isn’t the flashiest team, but they are very smart with player acquisitions. Since he arrived in Nashville borrowed of Toronto FC, Jacob Shaffelburg was lethal on the left side of Yote.

His speed and goal-scoring ability has allowed him to score twice already, including the recent match against CF Montreal.

7. Giuliano Carranza

Julian Carranza is one of MLS’ rising stars. Since joining Philadelphia Union from Inter Miami, the young Argentinian has impressed, scoring two goals in his first three games in 2023.

Though he didn’t score as it’s only a matter of time before the 22-year-old finds the back of the net.

6. Jesus Ferreira

FC Dallas has started the season well and Jesus Ferreria’s form is a big reason.

Their 3-1 win against the Galaxy showed why he’s so dangerous. The 22-year-old scored a brace over Western Conference rivals. Though he didn’t score in Dallas’ recent game against the Vancouver Whitecaps, the US international still managed three shots on target despite having the fewest touches on the field of any player.

5. Heber

Since being traded by the NYCFC to the Seattle Sounders, Heber has made the most of his situation.

With two goals a year, the Brazilian will be looking to etch his name into an already stacked offense for the Sounders.

Unfortunately later suffering a left hamstring strain, his goal tally will have to sit at just two for the foreseeable future.

4. Jeremy Ebobisse

Often overlooked by their California teammates, the San Jose Earthquakes have quietly had a strong start to the season.

Jeremy Ebobisse is one of the main reasons they have six points from three games. His goal against the Colorado Rapids scored all three points for San Jose.

3. João Klauss

Joao Klauss was one of the best signings of any team during the offseason. His two goals and assist propelled St. Louis to the top of the Western Conference. Against Portland, the Brazilian ended the match with three total shots and created two great chances.

2. Jordan Morris

The U.S. men’s national team leads the league in scoring and will be a big reason Seattle returns to the playoffs this year after losing in 2022.

Seattle may have lost to FC Cincinnati but rest assured Morris will find the back of the net soon.

1. Denis Bouanga

Denis Bouanga is the most in-form striker in the league right now.

With two goals and one assist in the league and a hat-trick during the LAFC CONCACAF Champions League tie against LD Alajuelense, the Gabon international is flying.

This article was originally posted on 90min.com as Major League Soccer Forwards – Power Rankings 2023.