Top 3 highest goalscorers in French football history

France’s rich footballing history and remarkable ability to develop world-class talent have been central to their long-standing success on the international stage. As one of the most respected national teams in the world, Les Bleus are almost always among the favourites to lift the trophy, no matter the competition.

Over the years, France has produced legendary players who have etched their names into football history through their achievements for both club and country. This tradition of excellence continues today, helping the nation maintain its dominance in major global tournaments.

While many French stars are still shining for their respective clubs, only a select few have reached legendary status as goal scorers for the national team. 

With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the highest goal scorers in the history of French football.

3 highest goalscorers in French football history

3. Thierry Henry – 411 goals

Thierry Henry was one of the greatest French footballers of his generation and a striker who truly defined an era. Renowned for his pace, intelligence, and clinical finishing, he established himself as one of the most lethal forwards in football history. Although major international trophies came later in his career, his influence on France’s success remains undeniable.

At club level, Henry left an even greater mark. He became a legendary figure at Arsenal, leading the team to historic achievements and redefining the role of a modern striker. His success continued at FC Barcelona, where he played a key role in one of the most dominant teams ever assembled. Through his brilliance and consistency, Henry secured his place as one of the finest French players of all time.

2. Kylian Mbappe – 411 goals

Kylian Mbappé remains the future of the French national team and has already established himself as one of France’s greatest players at a remarkably young age. He has played a key role in leading his country to World Cup success and continues to shine on the international stage. Alongside this, Mbappé has made an enormous impact at club level, with his exceptional goalscoring ability allowing him to equal Thierry Henry’s career goal tally. At just 27 years old, he is scoring at an incredible rate and is well on track to set records of his own.

Since his move to Real Madrid, Mbappé has quickly become the team’s main attacking threat and leading goalscorer. Most recently, he matched Cristiano Ronaldo’s calendar-year goal record, further highlighting his consistency and brilliance. As he continues to break records, Mbappé looks set to leave a lasting legacy for both club and country.

1. Karim Benzema – 509 goals

Despite limited opportunities to represent the French national team, Karim Benzema made every call-up count. While his international career had its challenges, his impact at club level was nothing short of extraordinary. At Real Madrid, Benzema established himself as one of the greatest French strikers of all time, playing a key role in the club’s dominance and lifting five UEFA Champions League titles.

His career reached its peak during the 2021–22 season, when he led Los Blancos to another Champions League triumph with a series of match-winning performances. That unforgettable campaign earned him the Ballon d’Or, crowning him the world’s best player. Even after moving to Saudi Arabia, Benzema continues to showcase his class, adding goals to his tally and proving that his quality remains undiminished.

Cover Credits - Goal.com