Nowadays, most football fans worldwide know a bit more about Major League Soccer. One key reason for the growth in awareness around the competition is undoubtedly the pedigree of signings clubs have made in recent times, with many stars in England opting to join a major MLS club as they seek a fresh challenge in a new environment.
While there aren’t as many eyes on MLS clubs as some of English football’s most prestigious teams, opting to join an MLS project has numerous benefits for players. Not only do they have the chance to live in the States, but they can also become much-loved professionals for the teams they opt to join. The same fans who have picked them in their Premier League fantasy football teams in the past and play leading online casino games like the Football Champions Cup can now watch these respected stars turning out for their clubs.
After departing English football’s top flight, we’ve certainly seen some hugely talented players thrive in Major League Soccer. So, with that in mind, below is a brief look at some former Premier League stars who shone in MLS.
Juan Pablo Angel
A deadly striker on his day, Juan Pablo Angel joined the New York Red Bulls from Aston Villa in 2007. It’s fair to say that most American soccer fans probably hadn’t heard of him, but they were undoubtedly aware of the Colombian’s goal threat after a few weeks in the league.
Angel was prolific in the States, scoring 62 goals in four years and making the league’s Best XI on one occasion. Also, after winning the MLS Cup in 2011, Juan Pablo Angel clearly enjoyed his time in Major League Soccer, and he’s a player Red Bulls fans still talk about today.
Thierry Henry
For many Premier League fanatics, Thierry Henry is the best player the competition has ever seen. Therefore, the Arsenal icon’s move to the New York Red Bulls in 2010 was big news.
The World Cup winner was too good for the competition then, scoring 51 goals in 122 appearances during his four-year stint in the Big Apple. Henry wasn’t at the peak of his powers either, but class is permanent, and the legendary striker showcased it almost every week.
David Beckham
When most soccer lovers think of a transfer that caused plenty of hype, David Beckham’s 2007 move to LA Galaxy is up there. To secure the services of English football royalty was a real coup for the team, with one of the most iconic footballers of his generation enabling the league to reach more fans.
Beckham stood out numerous times, brought more eyes to soccer in America, and clearly enjoyed his time playing in the country as he now has his own club, Inter Miami CF. If a world-famous star bought into soccer in the States, then it’s most definitely David Beckham.
Robbie Keane
A player at the forefront of some of LA Galaxy’s most memorable victories, Robbie Keane left Tottenham in 2011 and didn’t look back. The Irish hero won the MLS Cup multiple times and scored 83 goals in 125 games, and Galaxy fans adore him. Despite being near the end of his career, Robbie Keane’s talent was evident.
Wayne Rooney
Another beloved English star, Wayne Rooney, made a big impact in MLS with D.C. United. The former Everton prodigy brought new fans to the club and the league, and his 23 goals in 48 games justified the clubs’ investment in his services.