Top 10 MLS Players to Watch in 2026
Major League Soccer has never been better, and 2026 is shaping up to be the league's biggest year yet — with the World Cup on US soil driving unprecedented attention to the American game. Whether you're a lifelong MLS fan or just discovering the league through the World Cup buzz, here are the 10 players who will define the 2026 MLS season.
1. Lionel Messi – Inter Miami CF
Starting with the obvious: Messi remains the biggest name in MLS and one of the biggest names in global soccer. Even in the latter stages of his career, he changes games with individual brilliance and forces defenses to account for him every second he's on the field. Every Inter Miami match is must-watch television.
2. Lorenzo Insigne – Toronto FC
The former Napoli captain brought genuine Serie A quality to MLS and has been a consistent performer. His technical precision, vision, and leadership make him one of the most complete midfielders in the league.
3. Cucho Hernandez – Columbus Crew
One of the most exciting young forwards in MLS, Hernandez brings athleticism, acrobatics, and a relentless pressing style that embodies modern forward play. His spectacular goals — bicycle kicks, long-range efforts — have made him a highlight reel regular.
4. Riqui Puig – LA Galaxy
The former Barcelona midfielder is a technical marvel — his first touch, combination play, and ability to unlock defenses in tight spaces have made him a fan favorite in Los Angeles. When he's on form, he's arguably the most entertaining player to watch in MLS.
5. Xherdan Shaqiri – Chicago Fire
A veteran of Premier League and Champions League football, Shaqiri brought big-game experience and a penchant for spectacular goals to MLS. His crossing, long shots, and set piece quality give Chicago a genuine match-winner.
6. Cade Cowell – San Jose Earthquakes
One of the few players in this list who came through the MLS academy system, Cowell has developed into one of the league's most exciting attacking threats. His directness, pace, and finishing ability have drawn interest from European clubs and USMNT attention.
7. DeAndre Yedlin – Inter Miami CF
A veteran USMNT right back who brings defensive reliability and experience playing alongside Messi at Inter Miami. In a supporting cast around Messi, Yedlin's professionalism and consistency are hugely valuable.
8. Alan Pulido – Sporting Kansas City
The Mexican international forward has been a reliable goal-scorer in MLS for years. His movement, finishing, and work rate make him one of the most dangerous strikers in the Western Conference.
9. Gyasi Zardes – (Veteran Forward)
A journeyman by MLS standards, Zardes has been one of the USMNT and MLS's most reliable forwards over the past decade. His work rate, aerial ability, and knack for important goals make him a consistent asset wherever he plays.
10. Luciano Acosta – FC Cincinnati
Arguably the best pure No. 10 in MLS, Acosta has been the creative heartbeat of FC Cincinnati's rise. His ability to play through tight spaces, his passing range, and his leadership make him a perennial MLS Best XI candidate.
Why MLS Matters in 2026
With the World Cup coming to North America, MLS is in a unique position. Several MLS clubs are hosting World Cup matches at their stadiums, and the league's best players are visible to a global audience for the first time. Youth players watching MLS in 2026 might be watching the same stadiums where the World Cup Final takes place weeks later.
This is the most exciting moment in MLS history — and these are the players driving it.