Since its 1993 inception, Major League Soccer has hosted soccer’s legends and global stars, profoundly impacting the sport in North America. Through their world-class talent and game-changing moments, these icons have shaped MLS’s history. Here are the top fifteen players who have left the most significant mark on the league.
Andrea Pirlo
Pirlo was the first MLS player nominated for the FIFPro World XI. After joining NYCFC in 2015, he struggled with MLS’s pace and physicality. However, he made a significant impact, including scoring his first MLS goal from a free kick and providing eleven assists in his second season.
Kaká
When he joined Orlando City as their first Designated Player, he became MLS’s highest-paid player with a base salary of $6.6 million. Despite losing some pace, his technical skill and playmaking were exceptional as he enhanced the sport’s popularity in Florida. A Ballon d’Or winner, Kaká’s presence highlighted his MLS career.
David Villa
During his MLS tenure, the first signing of NYCFC scored 80 goals in 126 appearances, propelling NYCFC from obscurity to prominence. Villa had exceptional form and influence throughout his career. Also Spain’s all-time top scorer, he was named the 2016 MLS MVP and bagged two Best XI selections.
Didier Drogba
After dominating the Premier League with Chelsea, Drogba scored 23 goals in 33 games for Montreal Impact in 2015-16. He later became a minority owner and player for Phoenix Rising before retiring. The Chelsea legend and African football icon is known for his Champions League hat-tricks and FA Cup final goals.
Clint Dempsey
Clint Dempsey’s dynamic play with Seattle Sounders included pivotal goals and contributions to the 2016 MLS Cup win. Tied with Landon Donovan for the most USMNT goals, he excelled in the Premier League and international tournaments. Recognized as one of the finest American players, Dempsey’s style made him influential.
Wayne Rooney
In 2018, Rooney agreed to a three-and-a-half-year contract with D.C. United, debuted at Audi Field’s unveiling, and was quickly named captain. His memorable plays, including the famous track Back and Cross, highlighted his significance. Not only is he the Manchester United’s all-time leading scorer, but he is also the second-highest Premier League goal scorer.
Sebastian Giovinco
Toronto FC’s fortunes changed with “The Atomic Ant” in 2015. In 2017, he steered them to their first-ever MLS Cup. Giovinco’s dribbling, deadly set pieces, and scoring earned him the 2015 MVP, Golden Boot, and three Best XI selections. His arrival also led Toronto to their first playoff appearance.
Carlos Valderrama
Valderrama was a three-time Best XI and the 1996 MLS MVP while playing for Tampa Bay Mutiny, Miami Fusion, and Colorado Rapids. The Colombian midfielder lit up MLS with his creativity and set a record with 26 assists in a single season. A 2006 statue in Santa Marta lives on to remember his legacy.
Carlos Vela
Since joining LAFC in 2018, Carlos Vela has scored a record-breaking 34 goals to win the 2019 Golden Boot. His contributions include MLS MVP, MLS Cup, and Supporter’s Shield titles. Previously, with Arsenal and Real Sociedad, Vela’s impact on MLS secured his reputation as a top player.
Zlatan Ibrahimović
Zlatan’s entry into MLS in 2018 was spectacular. He electrified fans with his larger-than-life personality and incredible talent. The Swedish forward scored 52 goals over two seasons with LA Galaxy, including a stunning debut match where he scored twice.
Robbie Keane
This Irish striker scored 104 goals in 165 games with LA Galaxy from 2011 to 2016 and earned four Best XI selections and four Galaxy MVP awards. Keane’s standout moments include back-to-back hat tricks in July 2015 and three MLS Cups. He also captained Ireland until his international retirement in 2016.
Landon Donovan
A quintessential American soccer hero, his tenure with LA Galaxy is legendary. His match-clinching heroics, such as the iconic World Cup strike against Algeria and multiple MLS Cup wins, cemented his place as an all-time great. Notably, Donovan holds the world record for the most international assists in soccer history.
Thierry Henry
The French forward made a dramatic impact with the New York Red Bulls. His dynamic play and leadership revitalized the Red Bulls’ attack. From 2010 to 2014, Henry dazzled with his technical skill and vision, scoring 51 goals and consistently providing countless assists that propelled the team to the playoffs.
Lionel Messi
Fresh from winning the World Cup, Lionel Messi immediately revolutionized Inter Miami, securing their first-ever title at the 2023 Leagues Cup. His move to MLS was monumental and set to redefine North American soccer. Messi’s influence will shape the league’s future, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching.
David Beckham
David Beckham’s 2007 arrival in MLS was a game-changer. His time with LA Galaxy elevated the league’s global profile and brought home two MLS Cups (2011, 2012). Beyond the pitch, Beckham popularized MLS and set a new standard for attracting international stars to the league.
Top 15 Iconic Players in MLS