News Summary
Major League Soccer has unveiled its definitive list of the top 30 players in its 30-year history. This collection highlights both international stars and local talents who have had a significant impact on the league since its inception in 1996. Notable names like Lionel Messi, David Beckham, and Landon Donovan are featured, showcasing their contributions and influence both on and off the field. As the league continues to evolve, this list aims to honor players who have shaped the MLS legacy.
Washington, D.C. – Major League Soccer (MLS), celebrating its 30th season, has released a definitive list of the 30 best players in the league’s history. This impressive compilation acknowledges both renowned international stars and influential local talents who have shaped the league since its inception in 1996.
The list highlights iconic players such as Lionel Messi, who began a remarkable chapter with Inter Miami, David Beckham, who significantly raised the profile of MLS during his tenure with the LA Galaxy, and Landon Donovan, the most decorated player in MLS history with six MLS Cup titles. Donovan, who is also the all-time leader in assists with 136, ranks third in goals scored with 145, showcasing his remarkable contribution to the league.
Other significant figures include Jeffrey Agoos, who won five MLS Cup rings and is notable for his leadership as the president and general manager of the NWSL’s Portland Thorns, and Miguel Almirón, who made waves with Atlanta United before securing a record-setting $26 million transfer to Newcastle United after just three seasons.
On the soccer field, DaMarcus Beasley carved out a notable legacy; he became the only USMNT player to represent the nation in four World Cups and was key in bringing the U.S. Open Cup to the Houston Dynamo in 2018. Kyle Beckerman, renowned for his grit and leadership, captured the record for the most yellow cards (152) and played a central role for Real Salt Lake.
David Beckham’s venture into MLS helped the league gain worldwide recognition, with success at LA Galaxy bringing home MLS Cups in 2011 and 2012. Additionally, Sergio Busquets, who signed with Inter Miami in 2023, has quickly become central to the team’s possession-based approach, following a prestigious stint at Barcelona.
Other legends include Dwayne De Rosario, who amassed eight major trophies highlighting his illustrious career, as well as Clint Dempsey, a major addition who returned to MLS after a successful stint in the Premier League, greatly elevating the Seattle Sounders’ profile.
Marco Etcheverry, with D.C. United, generated impressive statistics including 101 assists over 191 appearances and contributed to eight major trophies. Sebastian Giovinco also notably impacted the league during his four-season tenure with Toronto FC, clinching an MVP award and scoring a record 13 direct free-kick goals.
Thierry Henry shifted perceptions about MLS during his tenure with New York Red Bulls, netting 52 goals in 135 appearances. Meanwhile, Zlatan Ibrahimović made an unforgettable splash with 52 goals in 56 games for LA Galaxy during his time in the league.
Kei Kamara, who holds the record for playing with the highest number of clubs in MLS (12), ranks second in all-time goals with 146. Chad Marshall, a stalwart in defense, earned the MLS Defender of the Year award three times throughout his career with the Columbus Crew and Seattle Sounders.
Josef Martínez, synonymous with Atlanta United’s early success, scored 111 goals in 158 matches. Tony Meola remains distinctive as the only goalkeeper to win an MLS MVP award, leading the Kansas City Wizards to victory in 2000.
Other noteworthy players in this illustrious compilation are Jaime Moreno, whose contributions to D.C. United include 133 goals and 102 assists, as well as Nick Rimando, who holds the all-time records for minutes played (46,336), shutouts (154), and saves (1,701).
As the league continues to evolve, players like Carlos Valderrama, who famously logged 114 assists, and Diego Valeri, celebrated for his role in Portland Timbers’ 2015 MLS Cup achievement, offer a glimpse into the depth and talent present in MLS. Chris Wondolowski stands out as the all-time leading goal-scorer in MLS with 171 goals, further enhancing the storied timeline of the league.
As fans look forward to the upcoming 2025 MLS All-Star Game set to occur in Austin at Q2 Stadium, anticipation builds regarding the potential presence of superstars like Messi, despite uncertainty surrounding his participation due to previous injuries. This celebration of MLS history, exemplified through this list, underscores the impact these players have made on the league and its growing legacy.
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Additional Resources
- USA Today: Best Players in MLS History
- Wikipedia: Major League Soccer
- MLS Soccer: MLS Transfers Needs
- Google Search: MLS All Star Game 2025
- Statesman: Will Messi Play at MLS All-Star Game?
- Encyclopedia Britannica: MLS All-Star Game
- US Soccer: MLS All-Star Skills Challenge
- Google News: MLS Skills Challenge 2025
- MLS Soccer: 2025 MLS All-Star Roster Updates
- Google Scholar: MLS Players History
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
