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Top 9 MLS Players of All Time: Legends of the League

By Abraham Velasquez

STRASBOURG, FRANCE - MAY 27: Lionel Messi #30 of Paris Saint-Germain warms-up prior to the Ligue 1 match between RC Strasbourg and Paris Saint-Germain at Stade de la Meinau on May 27, 2023 in Strasbourg, France. (Photo by Xavier Laine/Getty Images)
STRASBOURG, FRANCE - MAY 27: Lionel Messi #30 of Paris Saint-Germain warms-up prior to the Ligue 1 match between RC Strasbourg and Paris Saint-Germain at Stade de la Meinau on May 27, 2023 in Strasbourg, France. (Photo by Xavier Laine/Getty Images) /
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1. Landon Donovan – Unparalleled American Greatness

Landon Donovan stands tall as the epitome of American Soccer. With a record of six MLS Cups and numerous individual accolades, Donovan’s vision, versatility, and goal-scoring prowess made him a legend. His 145 goals and 136 assists in MLS are testaments to his enduring impact.

Donovan’s leadership and skill not only shaped the success of the LA Galaxy but also helped propel the United States Men’s National Team to new heights.

2. David Beckham – Elevating the League’s Profile

David Beckham’s arrival in MLS in 2007 was a transformative moment for the league. As a global superstar, Beckham brought unparalleled star power, attracting international attention to MLS. Beckham’s impact on MLS extended beyond his playing days, as he paved thee way for other high-profile international players to join the league.

3. Carlos Valderrama – Maestro of Creativity

Carlos Valderrama’s sublime passing and exquisite ball control made him of the most captivating players in MLS history. As a playmaking midfielder, Valderrama’s vision unlocked defenses and delighted fans during his time with the Tampa Bay Mutiny and the Colorado Rapids.

In his 9 year MLS career he achieve an impressive 114 assists and 175 games played.

4. Thierry Henry – Master of Elegance

Thierry Henry graced Major League Soccer, the French football star left defenders in awe and etched his name among the league’s all-time greats. He amassed a total of 228 appearances, provided 42 assists and netted 51 goals.

5. Robbie Keane – A Scoring Sensation

Robbie Keane’s time with the LA Galaxy was marked by an incredible goal-scoring prowess. The Irish forward’s lethal finishing, intelligent positioning, and leadership skills led the Galaxy to three MLS Cup titles during his tenure. Keane’s partnership with Landon Donovan formed one of the most formidable attacking duos in MLS history.

6. Jaime Moreno – MLS’s Longevity King

Jaime Moreno’s longevity and consistent excellence set him apart. Spending the majority of his career with D.C. United, Moreno became the league’s all-time leading scorer with 145 goals. His technical skills, clinical finishing, and understanding of the game made him a beloved figure in MLS. He score 133 goals in 340 MLS games.

7. Preki – The Wizard of Skill

Preki’s mesmerizing skills and creativity dazzled fans throughout his MLS career. The Serbian midfielder’s ability to navigate through tight spaces, deliver inch-perfect passes, and score spectacular goals earned him two MVP awards and left an indelible mark on the league.

8. Chris Wondolowski – Record-Breaking Goal Scorer

Chris Wondolowski’s incredible goal-scoring exploits have cemented his place among MLS’s greatest players. With 174 goals to his name, Wondolowski surpassed Landon Donovan as the league’s all-time leading scorer. His relentless work rate, positioning, and knack for finding the back of the net have made him a legendary figure. Wondolowski also holds the record for most goals in MLS.

9. Marco Etcheverry – Midfield Genius

Marco Etcheverry’s vision and playmaking ability made him a standout player in MLS. The Bolivian midfielder’s precise passing, dribbling skills, and ability to control the tempo of the game were instrumental in D.C. United’s success, including winning the MLS Cup in 1996.

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