Top Players in Major League Soccer History Celebrated

A vibrant celebration of the legends who defined Major League Soccer over 30 seasons.

News Summary

USA TODAY has released a list of the 30 best players in Major League Soccer history, recognizing legendary figures like Lionel Messi, David Beckham, and Landon Donovan, among others. These players have made significant contributions to the league, from setting assist records to elevating MLS on a global scale. The list highlights the impact of lesser-known talents alongside global icons and discusses their storied careers. Fans eagerly anticipate the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, where Messi is likely to participate, showcasing the ongoing excitement in the league.

Chicago – In a celebration of 30 seasons of Major League Soccer (MLS), USA TODAY has released a list of the 30 best players in the league’s history, highlighting both global icons and lesser-known talents who made significant contributions to the sport in the United States.

Among the notable figures on the list are Lionel Messi, David Beckham, and Landon Donovan. Donovan stands out as the all-time leader in assists with 136, has scored 145 goals, and won an impressive six MLS Cups, making him a pivotal figure in the league’s history. Jeffrey Agoos follows closely, having won five MLS Cup championships and currently serving as the president and general manager of the NWSL’s Portland Thorns.

Miguel Almirón is also recognized for his impactful three-season stint with Atlanta United, which culminated in a record $26 million transfer to Newcastle United. In addition to these players, DaMarcus Beasley became the first and only US Men’s National Team (USMNT) player to participate in four World Cups, contributing to the Houston Dynamo’s U.S. Open Cup win in 2018.

Defensively, Kyle Beckerman holds the record for the most yellow cards in MLS history with 152 and is noted for his leadership with Real Salt Lake. David Beckham, who joined the LA Galaxy, played a crucial role in the team’s success, winning MLS Cups in both 2011 and 2012, while also elevating the league’s global profile when he arrived.

In recent years, Sergio Busquets, a former Barcelona star, joined Inter Miami in 2023 and has been integral to the team’s playing style. Dwayne De Rosario, an MLS legend, has accumulated eight major trophies and is famous for his Golden Goal in the 2001 MLS Cup. Clint Dempsey, another notable name, found success upon returning to MLS as a star from the Premier League, significantly influencing the Seattle Sounders.

Additional players include Marco Etcheverry, who played for D.C. United and was instrumental in winning eight trophies, and Sebastian Giovinco, whose MVP-winning season with Toronto FC featured a record 13 direct free-kick goals. The list also pays tribute to the skill of Thierry Henry, who changed perceptions of MLS with his goal-scoring prowess, and Zlatan Ibrahimović, who left a mark with 52 goals in just 56 appearances for LA Galaxy.

Other standout players cited include Robbie Keane, who formed a legendary partnership with Donovan, Kei Kamara, a unique talent who played for a record 12 teams, and Chad Marshall, a strong defensive player with multiple awards. Josef Martínez left his mark on Atlanta United with 111 goals in 158 appearances, while Tony Meola is celebrated as the only goalkeeper to have won an MVP award in MLS history.

Recently, Lionel Messi has made headlines with his early statistics at Inter Miami, recording 49 goals and 24 assists in 59 games, and making a substantial cultural impact within the league. Jaime Moreno is recognized for his all-around contributions to D.C. United, while Pat Onstad gained acclaim as a goalkeeper, winning two Goalkeeper of the Year awards. Eddie Pope earned his place among the best defenders in USMNT history with eight trophies and numerous All-Star selections.

Other influential players include Preki, the only player to win the MVP award twice, and Steve Ralston, who ranks high in assists and minutes played in MLS history. All-time leading scorer Chris Wondolowski has 171 goals despite a later start in the league, while Bradley Wright-Phillips enjoyed a breakthrough with the New York Red Bulls, claiming multiple Golden Boot awards.

Excitement builds as the 2025 MLS All-Star Game is scheduled to take place in Austin at Q2 Stadium, where Messi is expected to be featured among the roster voted in by fans, though his participation will depend on his health.