Messi's Record Goals in Calendar Year Remains Unmatched

Lionel Messi remains the record holder for the most goals scored in a calendar year, netting 91 times in 2012 while playing for Barcelona and the Argentina national team. This record has not been surpassed.

A ranking published by Planet Football on November 13, 2026, notes that England captain Harry Kane has scored 55 goals in 2026, moving closer to the all-time top 10. Pele appears three times on the list, with his highest being 75 goals in 1958.

Other notable players include Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored 69 goals in 2013, and Robert Lewandowski, who also netted 69 goals in 2021. Romario and Zico each scored 72 goals in 2000 and 1979, respectively.

Gerd Muller set a remarkable record with 85 goals in 1972, which stood until Messi broke it in 2012.