North America’s MLS has gained significant importance in soccer, luring skilled players from various corners. As a result, the league, which took off in 1996, has housed several exceptional athletes who created their own legacies on American and Canadian soil.
This write-up delves into the all-time greats of the MLS. These players stand out for exceptional abilities, displays of skill and showmanship, and match winning mentalities. Their performances have set an example that motivates young aspiring footballers while enhancing soccer’s reputation across North America.
To identify these exceptional MLS players, we applied a holistic approach. We evaluated their statistical performance on the field, personal accolades they received throughout their careers, and team triumphs under their leadership. Additionally, we assessed their longevity in the league and their impact on both MLS and soccer. By utilizing these criteria, our goal was to compile a comprehensive list of players who have left indelible marks on American and Canadian soccer while contributing significantly to the growth of MLS.
Top 10 MLS players of all time
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
The LA Galaxy had the privilege of having Zlatan Ibrahimovic on their roster for two seasons. During his time there, he solidified his position as one of the best players in MLS history by scoring an incredible 52 goals in only 56 appearances. He accomplished this feat while being named to MLS Best XI both years and being considered for the MVP award in 2019. Despite only playing briefly in the league, Ibrahimovic’s exceptional performance and dynamic personality made him a standout player. Besides, who can forget Zlatan’s appearance on Jimmy Kimmel?
David Villa
David Villa’s four-year stint with New York City F.C. has seen him rack up an impressive record of 80 goals in just over 120 appearances. His contributions were essential to establishing NYCFC as a severe team that could contend within MLS. Recognizing his skill and leadership abilities, he won the MLS MVP award in 2016 and was named Best XI twice throughout his time in the league.
Carlos Vela
Since joining Los Angeles FC during their inception year back in 2018, Carlos Vela has proven himself time and again as one of MLS’ most talented footballers. Within his first season alone, Vela scored a staggering number of goals (34), leading him to win both Golden Boot honors and be crowned MVP winner too. Although relatively young compared with other players featured here today, like David Villa or Zlatan Ibrahimović, Carlos Vela represents future promise towards continued excellence within this sphere.
Dwayne De Rosario
Dwayne De Rosario was a highly versatile MLS player who has served as a forward, midfielder, and emergency goalkeeper. He recorded 104 goals and 77 assists during his time with the league, earning four MLS Cup victories. In addition to twice winning the Golden Boot as a top scorer, he was also named to the Best XI on six occasions.
Landon Donovan
Landon Donovan has been one of MLS’s most accomplished players. He played for San Jose Earthquakes and L.A. Galaxy before tallying 145 career goals and 136 assists. Donovan earned six MLS Cup wins and seven Best XI selections while also being named MVP twice. Moreover, he won one Golden Boot award as the top scorer.
Carlos Ruiz
Carlos Ruiz represented several clubs in his MLS career as an energetic Guatemalan striker who put up a total of 88 goals along with two golden boot awards for being the highest goal scorer; he was three times on the Best XI list, two-time winner of the coveted cup-MLS Championship; awarded Most Valuable Player (MVP) title in the year 2002 due to his speed, finishing ability that made him one of the most exciting players ever witnessed by fans.”
Tony Meola
Tony Meola is a renowned goalkeeper who has marked his history in the MLS. He had multiple stints with different teams and even brought home the MLS Cup twice. In addition, he was awarded four titles of MLS Goalkeeper of the Year and three times named to the prestigious MLS Best XI list. Moreover, Meola played an essential role for the United States Men’s National Team in the 1990 and 1994 World Cups due to his remarkable athleticism, leadership skills, and unwavering performance consistency, which undoubtedly places him among legendary players of all time in the MLS.
David Beckham
David Beckham is a renowned footballer whose reputation precedes him in the annals of soccer history. He has graced numerous teams throughout Europe and MLS, leaving a lasting impact on each one. During his six-year tenure with L.A. Galaxy, he played an instrumental role in elevating the visibility of MLS worldwide. Throughout his time there, he scored 20 goals and recorded 51 assists while winning two MLS Cups. In addition, his exceptional skills as a passer, free-kick specialist, and natural leadership have earned him the status of an authentic legend within MLS circles.
Thierry Henry
For four seasons, Thierry Henry, a forward from France, was part of the New York Red Bulls. During his stint at MLS, he scored an impressive tally of 51 goals. Twice consecutively named to the MLS Best XI and awarded the prestigious MLS Goal of the Year in 2013 are some of his many accolades. He is regarded as one of the most thrilling players who have graced MLS due to his remarkable speed and exceptional finishing ability. It’s impossible to overemphasize how much influence Henry had on soccer growth in America and this league itself.
Jeff Cunningham
Jeff Cunningham, a talented forward from Jamaica, spent more than ten years playing in the MLS and managed to net an impressive 134 goals – the second-highest number in league history for a while. He earned the Golden Boot award twice for being its top scorer and was also recognized as one of the MLS Best XI members twice during his career. Thanks to his remarkable speed, finishing skills, and unwavering consistency on the field, Cunningham stands out as one of the greatest footballers to ever play in this league.
Honorable Mentions
Before we wrap this one up, it is pertinent to mention some players who did not make the cut but still deserve commendation for their invaluable contributions to MLS. These players may have missed out on the spot in the elite category, but they remain an integral part of the league’s history and have played significant roles in making MLS what it is today. Some of these notable players include:
- Jaime Moreno – Enjoyed an illustrious 14-season career in the MLS, with an impressive tally of 133 goals. He was named to the MLS Best XI five times and played a key role in D.C. United’s four MLS Cup victories. His contributions to the early years of the league cemented his status as an iconic figure.
- Kakà – Made his mark during his three seasons with Orlando City SC. Known for his remarkable technical prowess and leadership qualities, Kakà proved himself invaluable to the team’s midfield unit. Though he spent only a brief time in MLS, Kakà remains one of soccer’s greatest midfielders whose contribution elevated Orlando City SC to new heights.
- Andrea Pirlo – Although at the end of his career when he joined MLS, Pirlo displayed flashes of brilliance known from earlier days and helped lead New York City F.C into the playoffs both seasons. His status as one of soccer’s greatest midfielders, and his presence as a World Cup winner, make him notable among other best players in Major League Soccer history.
- Cobi Jones – A recognizable face in MLS, Cobi played for the L.A. Galaxy for 12 seasons. He tallied 70 goals and 91 assists, making him one of the most productive players in league history. Jones won the MLS Cup twice and was named to the MLS Best XI thrice for his speed, skill, and leadership.
- Eddie Pope – One of the best defenders in MLS history. He played most memorably for D.C. United, making him a three-time winner of the MLS Cup as well as a CONCACAF Champions League winner; he was also named to the MLS Best XI thrice. Pope’s success with the U.S. Men’s National Team during their win at the 2002 World Cup adds prestige. A hero of the early days of the league.
- Robbie Keane – Arriving from the Premier League, Keane was an excellent striker who spent five seasons with L.A. Galaxy, scoring 83 goals throughout his MLS career. Winning three cups and being crowned MVP twice cements Keane as one of the best players ever seen on American soil
- Preki – Joined MLS aged 33, and didn’t retire until he was 42, playing mostly for the Kansas City Wizards. Preki played in midfield and recorded numerous achievements that are still standing records today. With stats tallying up to a formidable 79 goals alongside an astonishing 112 assists , Preki is undoubtedly one of the league history’s most iconic names.
- Marco Etcheverry – During the 1990s, Marco Etcheverry was an instrumental part of D.C. United’s success story. His inventive play style facilitated his team in securing numerous championships.
- Carlos Valderrama – Became well known for his precision passing abilities and was influential in increasing the sport’s popularity throughout the United States in the 1990s and early 2000s. Probably as well known for his hair as his soccer abilities.