The Major League Soccer (MLS) has undergone a tremendous transformation since its inception in 1996, evolving from a fledgling league into a competitive platform that has attracted some of the biggest names in football. Among these players, European stars have been some of the most notable, both for their influence on the pitch and the way they helped raise the profile of MLS across the globe. Their arrival in the league symbolized more than just a transfer of talent; it was a bridge between football cultures, helping to elevate the reputation of American soccer on the international stage.
Here is a look at the ten best European players who have graced MLS, showcasing their immense contributions and achievements during their time in the league.
1. David Beckham (LA Galaxy)
When discussing European stars in MLS, no name looms larger than David Beckham. His move to LA Galaxy in 2007 was a watershed moment for the league. Beckham’s transfer from Real Madrid was seen as a bold move, but it was a masterstroke in expanding the league’s reach and visibility. Beckham played 120 matches for LA Galaxy, scoring 20 goals and providing 42 assists. However, his influence extended far beyond his performances on the pitch.
One of Beckham’s most lasting contributions was his role in the establishment of the Designated Player rule, often referred to as the “Beckham Rule.” This rule allowed MLS teams to sign star players whose salaries exceeded the team’s salary cap, opening the door for more marquee signings in the future. Beckham’s presence at LA Galaxy attracted not just football fans, but also brought unprecedented media attention to MLS. During his tenure, he won two MLS Cups and two Supporters’ Shields, helping LA Galaxy establish themselves as a dominant force in the league. Beckham’s legacy in MLS is unmatched, as he remains a key figure in the league’s global rise.
2. Thierry Henry (New York Red Bulls)
Thierry Henry is often regarded as one of the greatest strikers in football history, and his spell at New York Red Bulls further solidified his legendary status. Henry joined the Red Bulls in 2010, bringing his wealth of experience from his time with Arsenal and Barcelona. Over the course of 135 appearances for the club, he scored 52 goals and provided 42 assists, making him one of the most impactful players in MLS during his stay.
Henry’s influence was felt not only through his goal-scoring prowess but also through his charisma and leadership on and off the field. He was instrumental in guiding the Red Bulls to their first-ever Supporters’ Shield in 2013, an achievement that marked the team’s best regular season finish. Henry’s presence in MLS also helped raise the league’s global profile, as he was a player recognized and respected worldwide. His ability to perform at a high level even toward the end of his career demonstrated his enduring quality as a top-tier footballer.
3. Robbie Keane (LA Galaxy)
Robbie Keane’s arrival at LA Galaxy in 2011 further established the club as a powerhouse in MLS. The Irish international quickly became a fan favorite and was known for his sharp finishing, intelligent movement, and leadership on the field. Keane made 165 appearances for the Galaxy, scoring 104 goals and providing 41 assists, cementing his place as one of the most productive forwards in the history of the league.
Keane’s time at LA Galaxy was filled with accolades. He won three MLS Cups (2011, 2012, and 2014) and earned the league’s MVP award in 2014. His partnership with David Beckham and Landon Donovan during his tenure at the club is often considered one of the most formidable trios in MLS history. Keane’s impact on the field was matched by his off-the-pitch contributions, as he became a mentor to younger players and embodied professionalism during his time in the league.
4. Zlatan Ibrahimović (LA Galaxy)
Zlatan Ibrahimović’s time in MLS may have been short, but it was nothing short of spectacular. The Swedish superstar joined LA Galaxy in 2018 and quickly became the league’s biggest attraction. In just 56 matches, Ibrahimović scored an incredible 52 goals and provided 14 assists, leaving fans in awe of his talent and larger-than-life personality.
One of the most memorable moments of Ibrahimović’s MLS career came during his debut, when he scored twice against rivals LAFC, including a stunning 40-yard volley. His physical presence, technical ability, and self-confidence made him a force to be reckoned with on the field, while his bold persona and unapologetic nature added an element of entertainment to the league. Despite his short stay in MLS, Ibrahimović left a lasting legacy, and his time with the Galaxy is often looked back on as one of the most exciting periods in the club’s history.
5. Wayne Rooney (DC United)
After an illustrious career with Manchester United and England, Wayne Rooney made his move to MLS in 2018, joining DC United. Rooney’s arrival was a significant moment for the league, as he was one of the most well-known players in the world at the time. In 52 appearances for DC United, Rooney scored 25 goals and provided 14 assists, but it was his leadership and experience that truly set him apart.
Rooney’s ability to influence matches with his vision, passing, and goal-scoring ability helped transform DC United into a more competitive team. One of the standout moments of his MLS career was a dramatic, last-minute assist from midfield against Orlando City in 2018, showcasing his determination and footballing IQ. Rooney’s time in MLS may not have been as long as some other European stars, but his contributions were significant, both on the field and in terms of raising the profile of the league.
6. Bradley Wright-Phillips (New York Red Bulls, LAFC, Columbus Crew)
Bradley Wright-Phillips is one of the most prolific goal-scorers in MLS history. After starting his career in Europe, Wright-Phillips found his footing in MLS, where he would go on to become a legend. With 234 appearances in the league, he scored 114 goals, making him the sixth-highest scorer in MLS history.
Wright-Phillips played the bulk of his MLS career with New York Red Bulls, where he helped the team secure three Supporters’ Shields and won the MLS Golden Boot twice, in 2014 and 2016. His ability to consistently find the back of the net made him one of the most dangerous forwards in the league, and his contributions to the Red Bulls are still fondly remembered by the club’s supporters.
7. Sebastian Giovinco (Toronto FC)
Sebastian Giovinco made an immediate impact upon joining Toronto FC from Juventus in 2015. The Italian forward’s dynamic style of play and technical ability made him one of the most exciting players to watch in MLS. In 142 appearances for Toronto FC, Giovinco scored 83 goals and provided 51 assists, and he quickly became the focal point of the team’s attack.
Giovinco’s 2015 season was particularly outstanding, as he won the MLS MVP award and the Golden Boot after scoring 22 goals and providing 16 assists. His performances helped lead Toronto to multiple playoff appearances, and in 2017, he played a crucial role in Toronto FC’s historic MLS Cup victory, the first in the club’s history. Giovinco’s influence on the field and his ability to deliver in crucial moments made him one of the best European players ever to play in MLS.
8. David Villa (New York City FC)
David Villa arrived in MLS as New York City FC’s first-ever signing ahead of their inaugural season in 2015, and he immediately became the face of the club. The Spanish forward had already enjoyed a legendary career in Europe, but he showed no signs of slowing down in MLS. In 126 appearances for NYCFC, Villa scored 80 goals and provided 21 assists, establishing himself as one of the league’s best forwards.
Villa’s exceptional goal-scoring ability and leadership qualities helped guide NYCFC to multiple playoff appearances, and he was named MLS MVP in 2016 after scoring 23 goals that season. His work rate, professionalism, and ability to score from a variety of positions made him a fan favorite in New York, and his contributions were instrumental in helping establish NYCFC as a competitive team in MLS.
9. Bastian Schweinsteiger (Chicago Fire FC)
Bastian Schweinsteiger joined Chicago Fire in 2017 after a highly successful career in Europe, where he won numerous trophies with Bayern Munich and the German national team. Schweinsteiger’s experience and leadership were invaluable to the Fire, as he helped transform the team into a more competitive side during his time in MLS.
In 92 appearances for Chicago Fire, Schweinsteiger scored 8 goals and provided 10 assists. While his role was more focused on organizing play from midfield, his presence had a significant impact on the team. In his first season with the Fire, Schweinsteiger helped the team finish third in the Eastern Conference, marking a considerable improvement from previous seasons. His professionalism and dedication to the game made him a respected figure both within the team and across the league.
10. Andrea Pirlo (New York City FC)
Andrea Pirlo’s time in MLS may not have been as statistically impressive as some of the other players on this list, but his influence and presence were undeniable. Pirlo joined New York City FC in 2015 and quickly became one of the most recognizable players in the league. Known for his exceptional vision and passing ability, Pirlo brought a level of elegance to the midfield that few players could match.
In 62 appearances for NYCFC, Pirlo scored one goal and provided 9 assists. While his contributions
may not have shown up heavily on the stat sheet, his ability to control the tempo of the game and his leadership in the midfield were key assets for the team. Pirlo became the first NYCFC player to be nominated for the FIFPro World XI in 2015, further highlighting his class and influence on the game.
These ten European stars made a lasting impact on MLS, both in terms of their performances on the field and their contributions to the growth of the league. Each player brought something unique, whether it was Beckham’s global influence, Henry’s goal-scoring prowess, or Pirlo’s midfield mastery. Together, they helped elevate the profile of MLS and contributed to its development as a competitive football league on the global stage.
