When you think of famous foreign soccer players who have played in the MLS, who comes to mind? Perhaps the legendary David Beckham, whose arrival in 2007 with the LA Galaxy marked a turning point for the league, the talented Thierry Henry, who dazzled fans with the New York Red Bulls, or even the GOAT Lionel Messi, who has been phenomenal for Inter Miami.
The MLS, founded in 1996, has steadily grown in stature and popularity, attracting an impressive array of international soccer stars over the years. Initially seen as a developmental league, MLS has evolved into a competitive arena that lures top talents from around the globe, contributing to the sport’s growth in the United States.
But beyond these headline-grabbing names, there are many foreign players who have quietly made their mark in the league—players you might never have guessed played in the MLS. This article will uncover 15 such stars, offering you a surprising and insightful look into the hidden history of the league’s international influence.
15. Raïs M’Bolhi – Philadelphia
Raïs M’Bolhi is best known for his exceptional goalkeeping skills, particularly during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. As Algeria’s starting goalkeeper, M’Bolhi delivered an outstanding performance that helped his team reach the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.
His heroic 11 saves in the round of 16 against Germany pushed the game into overtime, earning him man of the match honors despite Algeria’s narrow 2-1 loss. He continued to shine on the international stage, playing a pivotal role in Algeria’s victorious 2019 Africa Cup of Nations campaign, where he was named the tournament’s best goalkeeper.
In 2014, M’Bolhi made a surprising move to Major League Soccer, signing with the Philadelphia Union. His debut was delayed due to a car accident and paperwork issues, but he eventually took to the field on August 25 in a 4-2 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes.
Unfortunately, his time in MLS was short-lived and marred by inconsistency. After only nine appearances, he was benched by head coach Jim Curtin, who cited poor performance. Despite his illustrious international career, M’Bolhi’s stint with the Union is often remembered as one of the club’s most disappointing signings.
14. Júlio César – Toronto FC
Júlio César, a Brazilian goalkeeping legend with 87 international caps, brought his world-class talent to Major League Soccer with a memorable stint at Toronto FC in 2014.
Known for his incredible reflexes and shot-stopping ability, César spent seven glorious years at Inter Milan, where he won five Scudetti, the 2009–10 UEFA Champions League, and the 2010 FIFA Club World Cup. He was twice named Serie A Goalkeeper of the Year and even earned a nomination for the 2009 Ballon d’Or.
After his time at Inter, César joined Queens Park Rangers in the Premier League in 2012. Despite a strong debut season, QPR’s relegation saw him frozen out of the team. Seeking match action ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, César made a strategic move to MLS, joining Toronto FC on loan on February 7, 2014.
César made an immediate impact, debuting in a 2-1 victory over Seattle Sounders FC on March 15, 2014, with both goals scored by Jermain Defoe.
His stellar performances earned him the MLS Save of the Week during week seven against FC Dallas. However, his time in MLS was brief, as he was recalled by QPR on July 25, 2014.
13. Michael Emenalo – San Jose Clash
Michael Emenalo, a former Nigerian professional footballer, is best known for his roles as the director of football at Chelsea F.C. and AS Monaco FC.
As a player, Emenalo was a versatile left-back who began his career in Nigeria before moving to the United States, where he played college soccer at Boston University from 1985 to 1988. His professional career took him to clubs in Belgium, Germany, and England.
In 1996, Emenalo became one of the original allocated players for Major League Soccer, joining the San Jose Clash. During his two seasons (1996-97) with the Clash, Emenalo brought experience and skill to the fledgling league, contributing to its early development.
After his stint in MLS, he continued his playing career in Spain with UE Lleida and in Israel with Maccabi Tel Aviv. Today, Emenalo serves as the sports director of the Saudi Pro League, continuing his influential presence in the world of football.
12. Maya Yoshida – LA Galaxy
Maya Yoshida is a highly respected Japanese footballer who has made significant contributions both internationally and at the club level. With over 120 appearances for the Japan national team, Yoshida featured in the FIFA World Cups of 2014, 2018, and 2022, and played in the AFC Asian Cups of 2011, 2015, and 2019, winning the tournament in 2011 and finishing as runner-up in 2019.
He also represented Japan in the Olympic Games of 2008, 2012, and 2020.
In August 2023, Yoshida joined Major League Soccer club LA Galaxy on a free transfer, signing a contract through the end of the 2024 season. He made an immediate impact, debuting with a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory against the Chicago Fire on August 26, 2023.
Yoshida quickly became a first-team regular, forming a solid center-back partnership with Eriq Zavaleta and Chris Mavinga. He scored his first goal for LA Galaxy in a match against rivals Los Angeles FC on September 16, 2023.
Yoshida’s leadership qualities shone through when he captained LA Galaxy for the first time in a 3-3 draw against the Portland Timbers on September 30, 2023. Following the departure of Javier Hernández, Yoshida was named LA Galaxy’s new captain ahead of the 2024 season.
He continued to prove his worth by scoring crucial goals, including a last-minute equalizer against St. Louis City SC in March 2024 and another decisive goal in a 4-3 win against the San Jose Earthquakes in April 2024.
11. Bacary Sagna – Montreal
Bacary Sagna, once hailed by Arsène Wenger as the best right-back in the Premier League, brought his defensive brilliance to Major League Soccer with Montreal Impact in 2018. After shining at Arsenal and Manchester City and representing France in two World Cups and Euro 2016, Sagna’s move to MLS was an exciting twist in his career.
He is arguably one of the best right-backs in soccer history.
Joining Montreal Impact in August 2018, Sagna quickly became a key player, bringing European flair and experience to the team. Although his initial option for 2019 wasn’t picked up, he signed on for another year, adding stability and excitement to the Impact’s backline.
10. Kaká — Orlando
Widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation, Kaká enjoyed a stellar career at AC Milan, where he won the UEFA Champions League, Serie A title, and the Ballon d’Or.
After successful stints at Real Madrid and a return to Milan, Kaká joined Orlando City as their first Designated Player.
Kaká’s move to Orlando City was highly anticipated, and he didn’t disappoint. He made his MLS debut on March 8, 2015, scoring a dramatic free-kick equalizer in a 1-1 draw against New York City FC.
Throughout his time at Orlando, Kaká consistently showcased his skill, scoring goals and providing assists that thrilled fans. He became the highest-paid player in MLS history, earning a base salary of $6.6 million annually.
One of Kaká’s standout moments came during the 2015 MLS All-Star Game, where he captained the team, scored a penalty, and assisted David Villa in a 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, earning MVP honors. Despite his efforts, Orlando City narrowly missed out on the MLS Cup Playoffs in his first season.
Kaká’s second season saw him continue to shine, earning Player of the Week honors and being named to the MLS All-Star Game roster. However, injuries plagued his third season, limiting his appearances.
Despite this, he scored crucial goals and provided key assists, leaving a lasting impact on the league.
On October 11, 2017, Kaká announced he would not renew his contract with Orlando City for the 2018 season. He played his final match for the club on October 15, 2017, in a 1-0 defeat against Columbus Crew. Over his three seasons with Orlando City, Kaká made 75 league appearances, scoring 24 goals and providing 22 assists.
Although he did not become one of the greatest MLS players of all-time, he had a somewhat successful career.
9. Kieran Gibbs – Inter Miami
Kieran Gibbs, an English left-back renowned for his tenures with Arsenal and West Bromwich Albion, took an unexpected turn in his career by joining Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami in 2021.
Gibbs began his career at Arsenal, transitioning from winger to left-back after a loan spell with Norwich City. He played for Arsenal from 2007 to 2017 before moving to West Bromwich Albion for a four-year stint.
On March 23, 2021, Gibbs announced his move to Inter Miami, joining the MLS side once his contract with West Brom expired that summer. Gibbs made an impact on the pitch, bringing his Premier League experience to the league.
However, on February 23, 2023, Gibbs and Inter Miami mutually agreed to terminate his contract. Not one to stray far from the game, Gibbs transitioned smoothly into a new role, joining Inter Miami’s broadcasting team.
8. Nani – Orlando City
The Portuguese winger was renowned for his pace, flair, and work ethic. However, he brought his European magic to Major League Soccer when he joined Orlando City in 2019.
His illustrious career began at Sporting CP, followed by a successful spell at Manchester United, where he won multiple Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League. After stints with Fenerbahçe and Valencia and a return to Sporting, Nani signed a three-year contract with Orlando City.
Nani made an immediate impact in MLS, debuting with an assist in a 2-2 draw against New York City FC and scoring twice in a thrilling 4-3 victory over Colorado Rapids. A highlight of his time in MLS was the 2020 MLS is Back Tournament, where he played a pivotal role in leading Orlando City to the finals.
In 2021, Nani continued to shine, earning Goal of the Week and Player of the Week honors. However, his MLS journey also had its dramatic moments, including a two-game suspension for making contact with a referee.
On November 26, 2021, Nani announced his departure from Orlando City as his contract expired. His tenure in MLS was filled with memorable moments, showcasing his talent and leaving a lasting impact on the league.
Did you know that Nani was possibly one of the best dribblers in soccer history during his time.
7. Teemu Pukki – Minnesota United
The club that comes to soccer fan’s mind when they hear the name Teemu Pukki is Norwich City, yet he joined the Major League Soccer in 2023, signing for Minnesota United.
Pukki’s career began at the tender age of 15 with KTP in Finland, and he quickly made a name for himself.
His journey saw him playing for Sevilla in Spain, HJK in Finland (where he won the Veikkausliiga championship and Finnish Cup), Schalke 04 in Germany, Celtic in Scotland, and Brøndby in Denmark.
In 2018, he signed with Norwich City, becoming a club legend by scoring 88 goals in 210 matches and earning the Player of the Season award in the 2018–19 EFL Championship.
On June 27, 2023 Minnesota United announced the signing of Pukki on a free transfer, granting him Designated Player status until June 2025. Pukki wasted no time making an impact, scoring four goals in a spectacular 5-2 victory against LA Galaxy on October 7, 2023.
This feat made him the first Minnesota United player to score four goals in a single game and only the second player in franchise history to score at least a hat-trick in an MLS regular season game, following Darwin Quintero in 2018.
Pukki’s stint in MLS added another exciting chapter to his illustrious career, showcasing his goal-scoring talent on yet another stage. After his time with Minnesota United, Pukki returned to Finland, signing a two-year contract with his former club HJK Helsinki on January 24, 2025.
6. Steven Gerrard – LA Galaxy
No one would expect that Steven Gerrard, one of Liverpool’s all-time legends and a midfield maestro, took his talents to Major League Soccer, considering the fact that he has been coaching in Saudi Arabia.
Gerrard, who spent his career dazzling fans at Anfield and captaining both Liverpool and the England national team, made a surprising move to LA Galaxy in 2015.
On January 7, 2015, LA Galaxy made headlines by signing Gerrard to an 18-month Designated Player contract worth a cool $9 million. After wrapping up his Premier League season, Gerrard joined the Galaxy in July.
He made his debut on July 11 in a U.S. Open Cup quarter-final, and just six days later, he lit up the StubHub Center in his MLS debut, scoring a goal and setting up his old buddy Robbie Keane in a thrilling 5-2 win over the San Jose Earthquakes.
Gerrard’s time in MLS was filled with highlights, including being named to the 2015 MLS All-Star Game roster. He made 13 appearances in the regular season, netting two goals, with his final strike coming in a 3-2 victory over FC Dallas on September 27.
However, the Galaxy’s playoff dreams were dashed by the Seattle Sounders, and Gerrard candidly shared the challenges of long travel distances and diverse playing conditions in the U.S.
Gerrard’s final game for the Galaxy came on November 6, 2016, in a nail-biting MLS Cup Playoff penalty shootout loss to the Colorado Rapids.
He coolly slotted his penalty, but the Galaxy were ultimately eliminated. Nine days later, Gerrard announced his departure from the club, and on November 24, he officially hung up his boots at age 36.
5. Alessandro Nesta – Montreal
Who would have thought that one of the greatest defenders in football history would grace the fields of Major League Soccer? Alessandro Nesta, a maestro of defense known for his pace, artistic tackles, and elegance on the ball, brought his legendary skills to the Montreal Impact in 2012.
Nesta’s career in Europe was nothing short of spectacular, with over 400 Serie A appearances for Lazio and AC Milan, where he collected a treasure trove of trophies, including two Champions League titles. After dominating in Italy, Nesta made a surprising move to MLS, signing an 18-month contract with Montreal Impact on July 5, 2012.
His debut was nothing short of exciting, playing against Lyon in a friendly on July 24, and just three days later, he made his competitive debut in a thrilling 3-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls. Nesta didn’t just bring his defensive prowess; he brought a winning mentality, helping Montreal secure the 2013 Canadian Championship.
On October 20, 2013, Nesta announced his retirement at the conclusion of the 2013 MLS Cup Playoffs, wrapping up a brief but unforgettable stint in MLS.
4. Ashley Cole – LA Galaxy
Ashley Cole hailed as one of the greatest left-backs in football history, made waves with his stellar performances for Arsenal and Chelsea. With multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and a UEFA Champions League trophy under his belt, Cole’s legacy was already cemented.
But in 2016, he decided to switch things up and bring his talents to Major League Soccer, signing with LA Galaxy.
Cole’s MLS adventure kicked off with a goalless draw in the CONCACAF Champions League on February 24, followed by a league debut on March 6, where he helped secure a 4-1 win over D.C. United. Manager Bruce Arena couldn’t stop singing his praises, and why not? Cole was still showing flashes of the brilliance that made him a household name.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Cole had his fair share of drama, including a couple of red cards that had fans and commentators buzzing. In true Ashley Cole fashion, he shrugged it off and kept pushing forward.
On August 7, 2016, he scored his first goal for the Galaxy—a thrilling last-minute equalizer in a 2-2 draw against the New York Red Bulls. Talk about keeping fans on the edge of their seats!
That season, the Galaxy made it to the MLS Cup Playoffs, only to be knocked out in the Western Conference semi-finals by the Colorado Rapids. Cole’s missed penalty was a heartbreaker, especially as it was Steven Gerrard’s final professional match. Ever the gentleman, Cole publicly apologized to his long-time England teammate.
In 2017, Cole continued to be a key player, but the Galaxy struggled, finishing last in the league and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2008. Despite the challenges, Cole’s leadership shone through, and ahead of the 2018 season, he was named team captain by head coach Sigi Schmid. Unfortunately, the playoffs eluded the Galaxy once again, and Cole was released at the end of the season.
3. Bojan Krkić – Montreal
Bojan Krkić, a prodigy who burst onto the scene at Barcelona, brought his flair and talent to Major League Soccer with the Montreal Impact in 2019. Bojan’s career began at La Masia, where he broke Lionel Messi’s record for the youngest first-team debut at 17 years and 19 days. Over four seasons at Camp Nou, he scored 41 goals in 162 games before moving to AS Roma in 2011.
After stints with AS Roma, AC Milan, and Ajax, where he helped win the Eredivisie title, Bojan joined Stoke City in 2014. Following loans to FC Mainz 05 and Alavés, Bojan made his way to North America, signing with Montreal Impact on August 7, 2019.
Bojan made an immediate impact (pun intended), debuting four days later in a 2-3 loss to Chicago Fire. He scored his first goal for the Impact with a stunning 25-yard strike against Toronto FC on August 25, marking his first goal in 11 months.
However, his time in MLS was brief, as the Impact declined to extend his contract in December 2020.
In August 2021, Bojan left the MLS and joined J1 League club Vissel Kobe, continuing his global football journey.
2. Tim Cahill – New York Red Bulls
Tim Cahill is a legendary Australian soccer player, widely regarded as one of the greatest in the country’s history.
Cahill excelled as an attacking midfielder and striker, becoming particularly famous for his exceptional heading ability in the penalty area. Over his international career, Cahill scored 50 goals in 108 caps for Australia between 2004 and 2018.
Cahill’s club career is equally impressive, with notable stints at Millwall and Everton. He became a fan favorite at Everton, scoring 56 goals in 226 appearances. After eight years with the club, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the fans and the club, acknowledging the difficulty of his decision to leave.
In July 2012, Cahill made the move to Major League Soccer, signing with the New York Red Bulls as a Designated Player for a reported fee of approximately £1 million.
His Impact was immediate, making his MLS debut against the Houston Dynamo the following month. Cahill’s knack for dramatic moments continued, as he scored a last-minute winner against the LA Galaxy in May 2013 and set a new MLS record for the fastest goal, scoring just eight seconds into a match against the Houston Dynamo in October 2013.
Despite his contributions, including a crucial goal in the MLS Cup semi-final against the New England Revolution, the Red Bulls were eliminated, and Cahill left the club by mutual agreement in February 2015.
1. Jermain Defoe – Toronto
Jermain Defoe, a name that rings bells for any true soccer fan, is an English striker known for his goal-scoring prowess and knack for finding the back of the net. After making his mark with West Ham and Tottenham Hotspur, Defoe took his talents across the pond to Major League Soccer, signing with Toronto FC in January 2014.
He gained a reputation for being one of the greatest super-subs in soccer history.
Toronto FC pulled out all the stops to land Defoe, even enlisting the help of rapper and Toronto native Drake to sweeten the deal. Defoe’s move to MLS came with a lucrative four-year contract, and he was immediately loaned back to Tottenham until the end of February 2014.
When he finally donned the Toronto jersey, he made an explosive debut, scoring both goals in a 2-1 victory over Seattle Sounders FC on March 15, 2014.
Despite his strong start, Defoe’s time in Toronto was a bit of a rollercoaster. By August 2014, speculation about his future was rampant, especially after the club fired manager Ryan Nelsen. Toronto’s general manager hinted that Defoe might be unsettled, leaving fans on edge about the striker’s next move.
