News Summary
New York City recently hosted celebrations to mark the 30th anniversary of Major League Soccer (MLS), unveiling a list of the top 30 players in league history. This historic list recognizes both global icons and domestic legends who have played vital roles in shaping the league’s reputation over the years. From record holders to influential midfielders and defenders, the list showcases talent that has made a significant impact on American soccer. As MLS looks to the future, it continues to build on its rich history and international appeal.
New York City Hosts Celebrations Marking 30 Seasons of Major League Soccer with Top 30 Player List
Major League Soccer (MLS) celebrated its 30th anniversary with the release of an official list recognizing the 30 best players in league history. This list highlights both legendary figures and influential stars who have contributed significantly to the league’s growth and reputation over three decades.
Key Highlights from the List of Elite MLS Players
- Global icons such as Lionel Messi, David Beckham, and Zlatan Ibrahimović have played pivotal roles in elevating MLS’s profile on the world stage.
- Domestic legends like Landon Donovan have established records, including the most MLS Cups (six), the all-time leader in assists (136), and ranking third in goals scored (145).
- Jeffrey Agoos holds five MLS Cup titles — second only to Donovan — and currently serves as the president and general manager of the National Women’s Soccer League’s Portland Thorns.
- Midfield maestros such as Miguel Almirón, who played three impactful seasons with Atlanta United before earning a record $26 million transfer to Newcastle United, exemplify MLS’s role in developing talent.
- US Men’s National Team (USMNT) legends include DaMarcus Beasley, the only player to appear in four World Cups, and Steve Ralston, known for a critical goal in 2006 World Cup qualification and high assists totals in MLS history.
- Many defenders and goalkeepers also made the list, with notable names such as Eddie Pope, recognized as one of the best center backs in USMNT history, and Nick Rimando, who holds MLS records for minutes played, shutouts, and saves.
Players with Impactful MLS Careers
Some players are remembered for their scoring prowess or consistency. Chris Wondolowski is the league’s all-time top scorer with 171 goals, despite a relatively late start. Josef Martínez scored 111 goals in just 158 appearances, becoming a key figure for Atlanta United’s early success.
Meanwhile, Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimović changed perceptions of MLS with their on-field performances; Henry scored 52 goals in 135 appearances for New York Red Bulls, while Ibrahimović netted 52 goals in 56 games for LA Galaxy.
dominant midfielders and playmakers
Long-standing figures include Sergio Busquets, whose experience from Barcelona enriches Inter Miami, and Carlos Valderrama, a legendary playmaker with 114 assists across multiple teams. Barcelona alumnus Giovani dos Santos also made notable contributions during his MLS stint.
Defensive stalwarts and goalkeepers
Chad Marshall previously won MLS Defender of the Year three times, showcasing defensive consistency. Pat Onstad secured two MVP awards as a goalkeeper, vital to title-winning teams at Kansas City and Houston.
Recent and Current Stars
Sebastian Giovinco, who played four seasons with Toronto FC, earned an MVP award and scored a league-record 13 direct free-kick goals. More recently, Lionel Messi has made an immediate cultural impact at Inter Miami, tallying 49 goals and 24 assists in 59 appearances, although his future participation in upcoming matches remains uncertain due to injuries.
Other Noteworthy Contributions
- Robbie Keane contributed 83 goals for LA Galaxy, forging a legendary partnership with Donovan.
- Kei Kamara holds a record for playing with 12 different MLS teams and ranks second on the league’s all-time goal list with 146 goals.
- Clint Dempsey returned from Europe to become a key player for Seattle Sounders, while Marco Etcheverry led D.C. United to eight trophies, providing 101 assists in 191 games.
Upcoming MLS Event
The league’s 2025 All-Star Game will take place in Austin at Q2 Stadium, featuring Messi among the selected players voted by fans. However, his participation may be affected by lingering injuries, leaving his involvement uncertain as the event approaches.
Background and Legacy
Over 30 seasons, MLS has built a reputation as a league of progress and international appeal, attracting top players from around the world. The list of the 30 best players underscores the league’s history of fostering talent, featuring a mix of legendary domestic players and global stars whose contributions have shaped the sport’s development in North America.
As MLS moves into its next chapter, it continues to celebrate its rich history while aiming to grow further through both domestic talent and international stars shaping its future.
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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
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