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, unwavering commitment to their teams, and broader responsibilities beyond gameplay. Their performances have set an example that motivates young aspiring footballers while enhancing soccer’s reputation across North America.
Criteria for Selection
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.
Honorable Mentions
However, before we proceed with our top 10 list, 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, yet 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
Jaime Moreno, a Bolivian forward, enjoyed an illustrious 14-season career in the MLS. With an impressive tally of 133 goals – making him the third-highest scorer in league history – Moreno’s skill on the ball and finishing ability earned him numerous accolades. 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
Brazilian midfielder Kakà also 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, into becoming a competitive force worth reckoning with.
Andrea Pirlo
Another player worth mentioning is Andrea Pirlo, an Italian midfielder who played for New York City F.C. for two seasons before retiring. 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 playoffs both times. His status as one of soccer’s greatest midfielders, combined with significant contributions to North America’s soccer growth, make him notable among other best players in Major League Soccer history.
Cobi Jones
Cobi Jones, a recognizable face in MLS, 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 on and off-field.
Eddie Pope
Eddie Pope is known as one of the best defenders in MLS history. He was playing for D.C. United and Real Salt Lake make him a three-time winner of the MLS Cup; 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.
Robbie Keane
Robbie Keane arrived from Ireland as an excellent striker who spent five seasons with L.A. Galaxy, scoring 83 goals throughout his career. Winning three cups and being crowned MVP twice cements Keane as one of the best players ever seen in Major League Soccer.
Preki
Preki or Predrag Radosavljevic, if you prefer, formalities played midfield for several teams during MLS’ initial years – even now recording numerous achievements that are still standing records today. With scores tallying up to a formidable 79 goals alongside an astonishing number of assists totaling up to be around 112 made, Preki undoubtedly one of the league history’s most iconic names- winning two MVP awards along with being named on multiple occasions into both respective All-Star sides just further states this fact more clearly!
Marco Etcheverry
During the 1990s, Marco Etcheverry, a Bolivian midfielder, was an instrumental element in D.C. United’s success story. His inventive play style facilitated his team in securing numerous championships.
Jaime Moreno
Another player from Bolivia, a forward named Jaime Moreno, also had an impressive stint with D.C. United. He played for the team for 14 seasons and made history by setting the record for the most goals scored by a foreign player in MLS.
Carlos Valderrama
Carlos Valderrama had a notable career as a Colombian midfielder with multiple MLS teams during the late 1990s. He became well known for his precision passing abilities and was influential in increasing the sport’s popularity throughout the United States. Although not listed among the top 10 players, these individuals – including Valderrama – were exceptional athletes who significantly shaped MLS and soccer in North America. Next, let’s take a look at the top 10 MLS players of all time.
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
When discussing some of the best players ever employed by MLS teams, Carlos Vela is another player worthy of mentioning. Since joining Los Angeles FC during their inception year back in 2018, 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 is 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. 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.
Summary
The Major League Soccer has housed several unparalleled footballers from around the world. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the league and promoting the sport within North America. The players range from proficient goal-scorers to impregnable defenders, each leaving an enduring impression on supporters and audiences alike. While opinions may vary on who holds the title of “Best MLS Player,” it is inevitable that every player has made an irreplaceable impact on this esteemed league’s illustrious history.
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, unwavering commitment to their teams, and broader responsibilities beyond gameplay. Their performances have set an example that motivates young aspiring footballers while enhancing soccer’s reputation across North America.
