Major League Soccer is generally seen as a league where the top European soccer stars move over to at the twilight of their careers. But that’s no longer the case! In recent years, it has started to attract even younger and more influential players from some of Europe’s biggest leagues.
The league has grown massively – and that, along with very attractive financial incentives, and much better levels of play means that it’s now a viable destination – not just for the veteran icons, but also for Europe’s rising stars.
So, with that being said, let’s take a look at some of the biggest European soccer stars who are currently making serious waves in MLS.
Lionel Messi – Inter Miami CF
It doesn’t get any bigger than this! Arguably the biggest and best signing in MLS history, Lionel Messi left Paris Saint-Germain in 2023 to join us in Inter Miami. This Argentine legend may not be European by nationality, but he has spent the majority of his playing career with FC Barcelona – so he’s definitely considered an honorary European in the world of football.
Since he arrived in Miami, he has completely transformed the league’s appeal all over the world – with even more viewership, higher attendance, and more merchandise sales than ever before. His performances on the pitch, including seriously stunning goals and match-winning assists, have made Inter Miami one of the most watched and followed teams in the league.
Lorenzo Insigne – Toronto FC
Next, we have the Italian international and former Napoli captain, who made his groundbreaking move to Toronto FC in 2022. With him, he brought his insane dribbling skills, creativity, and leadership. And it was his arrival that marked a bit of a change in MLS signings – as he was still performing at the very highest level in Serie A when he made the move.
However, injuries haven’t always been kind to him, but with his technical ability and experience, he’s been invaluable to Toronto’s attacking play.
Xherdan Shaqiri – Chicago Fire
Fans of EPL betting will be familiar with the Swiss international Xherdan Shaqiri, who joined Chicago Fire in 2022 and brings with him a wealth of experience from his time at Bayern Munich, then Liverpool, and Inter Milan. This is a player known for his flair, creativity, and powerful shot – and is always a major playmaker for Chicago Fire.
He has an ability to change games with his skill and vision, which has made him one of the most exciting players in MLS.
Riqui Puig – LA Galaxy
Next, we have the former Barcelona wonder kid, Riqui Puig, who joined LA Galaxy in 2022 at just 23 years old… one of those rare cases where a young European talent moves to MLS instead of trying to climb the ranks in a big European league.
His midfield creativity in the sport, passing ability, and technical skills have made him one of the most exciting midfielders in the entire league – and his decision to drop Europe and join MLS in his prime years just goes to show how competitive and alluring the league is starting to get.
Christian Benteke – D.C. United
Belgian striker Christian Benteke arrived to play for D.C. United in 2022 – after enjoying a long and illustrious Premier League career with Premier League clubs like Aston Villa, Liverpool, and Crystal Palace.
His physical presence and impressive goal-scoring ability have really helped to strengthen D.C. United’s attack. He’s also adjusted pretty well to MLS – which just goes to show that European forwards can have a massive impact in the league.
Héctor Herrera – Houston Dynamo
Although he isn’t European born and bred, Héctor Herrera did spend a number of pretty successful years in La Liga playing for Atlético Madrid and then FC Porto in Portugal before he joined Houston Dynamo in 2022.
The Mexican midfielder, with his tactics, leadership skills, and passing ability, has completely changed Houston’s midfield.
These are just some of the players – and more and more European superstars are all seeing the appeal of MLS. It started off with David Beckham, who decided he wanted to try out the LA lifestyle – and more followed his lead. As the MLS continues to get more and more successful, there will be plenty more ready to make the move.