The offside rule has always been one of football’s most debated aspects, but one thing remains consistent: the most aggressive attacking players are often the ones caught offside the most. This season’s Premier League numbers underline that trend perfectly, with Bournemouth striker Evanilson leading the division on 29 offsides.
At first glance, being flagged offside repeatedly may look like poor timing of a run or lack of discipline. In reality, it is often the opposite. The players topping these rankings are usually those making the most dangerous runs, constantly testing defensive lines and trying to create separation from centre-backs.
This season’s list is dominated by forwards, quick wingers and attacking focal points. However, there are also a few surprises, including defenders and wide players who have become increasingly involved in attacking systems.
The Premier League’s Most Offside Players This Season
Here are the current leaders for offsides in the Premier League this season.
PlayerOffsidesGoalsAppearancesEvanilson29634Cody Gakpo26734Dominic Calvert-Lewin221232Igor Thiago222236Ollie Watkins211235Raúl Jiménez19934Antoine Semenyo181534Jarrod Bowen17836Jean-Philippe Mateta171129João Pedro161534
The figures show a clear pattern. Attackers who rely heavily on movement, pace and direct runs naturally rack up higher offside totals than players who prefer to receive the ball to feet.
Why Offsides Can Be a Positive Statistic
Offside numbers rarely tell the full story. A striker caught offside 20 times is also likely making dozens of threatening runs that defenders struggle to track.
Managers often encourage forwards to stay on the edge of the last defender because that movement stretches defensive structures. Even when the run itself does not result in a chance, it forces defenders deeper and creates space elsewhere on the pitch.
That is exactly why players like Ollie Watkins and Dominic Calvert-Lewin appear high on the list. Both strikers thrive when attacking space behind the back line, especially during transitions or quick attacking phases.
For quick forwards, there is always a balance between anticipation…
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