The Five Biggest International Players To Ever Join The MLS
While Major League Soccer may be fairly young in comparison to other leagues around the world, in its time it has also gained a remarkable number of world-famous soccer players. Though they may have helped greatly with publicity, they weren’t just there for show, they also proved to be valuable assets when it came to play.
The following is a list of the five biggest players from around the world to ever grace the ranks of MLS teams.
1. Kaká
Country: Brazil
MLS Team: Orlando City
MLS Career: 2014-2017
Before Messi and Ronaldo came along, Brazilian player Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite, otherwise known as Kaká by media and fans, was considered as one of the best players in Europe’s major leagues. During three seasons with Orlando City, he racked up a total of 24 goals and 21 assists. This included an opening goal in the 21st minute of his debut game, which the team went on to win 2-0 against Columbus Crew.
2. Wayne Rooney
Country: England
MLS Team: D.C. United
MLS Career: 2018-2019
English soccer legend, Wayne Rooney, proved to be a welcome and highly successful addition to the ranks of D.C. United. During his two years with them, the team saw a notable rise in their quality of play. He will be particularly remembered for the spectacular tackle and cross-field assist that lead to a dramatic win during his first season with them.
3. Thierry Henry
Country: France
MLS Team: New York Red Bulls
MLS Career: 2010-2014
Considered one of the greatest players in history of Europe’s Premier League, Henry also made a name as an unstoppable force in the MLS with the New York Red Bulls. Scoring 51 goals over five seasons, he was also awarded the Supporter’s Shield in 2013 for his superb supportive play.
4. Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Country: Sweden
MLS Team: LA Galaxy
MLS Career: 2018-2020
Considered a fine-wine in the sport, Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be fondly remembered for his time with LA Galaxy, both for his skill on the field as well as his entertaining interviews with Jimmy Kimmel. During his three years in MLS, he netted an amazing 52 goals over a total of 56 games.
5. David Beckam, LA Galaxy
Country: England
MLS Team: LA Galaxy
MLS Career: 2007-2012
Perhaps one of the most publicised additions to MLS of all time, though, was another world-famous English player, David Beckham. In 2007, Beckham surprised everyone with his sudden transition from Real Madrid to LA Galaxy. While the reasoning behind the move was apparently to give more focus to other career opportunities, Beckham still manage to score an impressive 98 goals during successive MLS Cup titles.
The List Goes On
These are just a few notable international players to join MLS over time, coming from a much longer list that’s as impressive as the online keno real money games available 24/7. Other worthy mentions include Didier Drogba playing for Montreal Impact, Andrea Pirlo, Frank Lampard, and David Villa, playing for NYCFC, Landon Donovan for LA Galaxy, and many more.
