Top 10 Greatest MLS Players of All Time – e2bdt

Major League Soccer (MLS) has grown tremendously since its inception in 1996. Over the years, it has attracted world-class international stars as well as talented domestic players, creating unforgettable moments and thrilling matches for fans. Soccer is increasingly becoming a major sport in the United States, rivaling traditional sports like basketball, baseball, and American football. The following ranking highlights the greatest MLS players of all time, celebrating their impact, records, and contributions to the league.

List of 10 Greatest MLS Players of All Time - e2bdt

10. Dwayne De Rosario

Dwayne De Rosario was one of MLS's most electrifying attacking players. Known for his incredible pace, agility, and tactical intelligence, he had the ability to change games in an instant. De Rosario played for five MLS clubs - San Jose Earthquakes, Houston Dynamo, Toronto FC, New York Red Bulls, and DC United - totaling 330 league appearances and 102 goals. He won four MLS Cups and earned two MLS Cup MVP awards in 2001 and 2007. De Rosario's leadership, creativity, and knack for scoring decisive goals made him a true icon of the league. At Toronto FC, he holds multiple club records for goals, multi-goal games, and match-winning strikes, securing his spot among the greatest MLS players of all time.

9. Diego Valeri

Diego Valeri, the Argentine maestro, is celebrated for his exceptional vision, ball control, and ability to dictate the tempo of a match. Playing exclusively for Portland Timbers in MLS, Valeri appeared in 262 games, scored 86 goals, and provided 102 assists. His playmaking and leadership helped Portland secure the 2015 MLS Cup, where he was named MVP. Valeri also won the league MVP award in 2017, becoming a role model for attacking midfielders across the league. By dedicating his prime years to MLS rather than Europe, he cemented his status as one of the greatest MLS players of all time.

8. Jaime Moreno

Jaime Moreno, the Bolivian striker, is remembered for his consistency, goal-scoring instinct, and long-standing loyalty to MLS. Over a 340-game career, he scored 133 goals and created numerous opportunities for teammates. Moreno tied the MLS all-time goal record in 2007 and played in every season of MLS's first 15 years. His contributions with DC United, winning three MLS Cups, and his short stint with MetroStars highlight his exceptional career. Moreno's ability to remain at the top of his game for over a decade ensures his place among the greatest MLS players of all time.

7. Carlos Vela

Carlos Vela's move to Los Angeles FC in 2018 changed the league landscape. Known for his flair, creativity, and lethal finishing, Vela scored 93 goals in 187 games and contributed 50 assists. He led LAFC to their first MLS Cup and two Supporters' Shields and earned the league MVP award. Vela's presence brought global attention to MLS, proving that world-class talent could thrive in North America. His combination of technical brilliance and goal-scoring consistency places him firmly among the greatest MLS players of all time.

6. Robbie Keane

Robbie Keane, the Irish striker, brought leadership, experience, and consistency to LA Galaxy. In 125 MLS appearances, he scored 83 goals and added nine more in 18 playoff matches. Keane helped Galaxy win three MLS Cups, earning MLS Cup MVP honors in 2014. His professionalism and tactical intelligence made him a dangerous and reliable forward. Keane's combination of leadership, scoring efficiency, and clutch performances makes him one of the greatest MLS players of all time.

5. David Beckham

David Beckham's arrival in MLS was transformational for the league. While he scored only 18 goals in 98 MLS matches, his global reputation brought unprecedented media attention, sponsorships, and fan interest. Beckham helped LA Galaxy win two MLS Cups and later became owner of Inter Miami, bringing more international stars to MLS. His influence off the field was as important as his on-field performances, solidifying his place among the greatest MLS players of all time.

4. Sebastian Giovinco

"The Atomic Ant," Sebastian Giovinco, wowed MLS fans with his pace, skill, and finishing ability. In 114 MLS games, he scored 68 goals and provided 52 assists. Giovinco was central to Toronto FC's first MLS Cup win. In 2015, he earned the Golden Boot and MVP awards while leading the league in assists. His stellar performances proved that European stars in their prime could leave a lasting impact in MLS, earning him a position among the greatest MLS players of all time.

3. Chris Wondolowski

Chris Wondolowski is MLS's all-time leading scorer with 171 goals in 413 games. Known for his precision finishing and consistency, Wondolowski scored ten or more goals in ten consecutive seasons. He also holds the league record for most road goals and game-winning goals. Playing for San Jose Earthquakes and Houston Dynamo, he became a reliable and iconic MLS figure, firmly in the list of the greatest MLS players of all time.

2. Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi's arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 was historic for MLS. In just 88 games, he scored 77 goals and provided 43 assists. Messi helped Inter Miami win the 2023 Leagues Cup, 2024 Supporters' Shield, and 2025 MLS Cup. He also earned consecutive MVP awards in 2024 and 2025. Messi's influence elevated MLS on a global scale, attracting worldwide fans and top talent, securing his place among the greatest MLS players of all time.

1. Landon Donovan

Landon Donovan is widely regarded as the greatest American soccer player and one of the top figures in MLS history. In 340 MLS games, he scored 144 goals and provided 136 assists, helping LA Galaxy win six MLS Cups. Donovan's leadership, vision, and consistency helped MLS establish itself during its formative years. He inspired an entire generation of American soccer players, making him the number one on the list of the greatest MLS players of all time.