The MLS created the designated player rule when David Beckham joined the LA Galaxy. This rule allowed teams to sign three players who would be considered outside of their salary.
This has brought in big names from Europe into the MLS, and a few of them have made an impact not just on their careers but also on their clubs and the league itself.
Since the creation of the DP spot, the MLS has grown in league size and value bringing in bigger stars across the league. Each team is now in play to bring in former stars who are not far removed.
I want to explore what international stars have made the biggest impact in the MLS after leaving their European sides. Beckham’s impact to the MLS is undeniable; other big names made the list or were considered, who have not been forgotten by MLS fans.
Beckham is not included on this list as I wanted to break down other DPs that have made an impact outside of the man who started this trend of going to the MLS.
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Top 3 Designated Players in MLS History
Kaka
Kaka was a legendary player out of Brazil who became a club legend at AC Milan during his time in Serie A in Italy.
Kaka joined Orlando City in 2015 and left the club in 2017 when he eventually retired after that season. Kaka is one of a few players in sports where all you have to say is one name, and everyone knows who you are talking about.
Kaka joined Orlando City after his second and final stint with AC Milan. Kaka was the club’s first-ever DP and captained the squad when he joined.
He earned 25 goals to his name in 75 appearances in his years in the MLS.
Kaka may not have had the most impactful tenure compared to the next two stars that are on this list. He did bring more eyes to the MLS in an era of quick expansion, with stars needed to help teams create a national presence.
Thierry Henry
During Beckham’s stint in the MLS, the league needed more big names to bring credibility to their other original clubs in hopes of bringing more eyes to the league.
French and Arsenal legend Thierry Henry became a soccer household name for sports fans in America when he saw his impact on the American soul. Henry joined the New York Red Bulls in 2010 and then departed with the club in 2014, then eventually retired to be closer to family.
He helped New York win the Supporters’ Shield in 2013, which was the biggest accomplishment he had with the team.
Henry is now on a panel on CBS, becoming one of the biggest voices in the game, especially for American fans looking for expert breakdowns as well as humor from the French legend and the rest of the panel.
Henry is one of the best players in Arsenal history. His joining the MLS at a time with just one big name was needed to help create a notable list a players to bring in fans. Henry’s joining the MLS only helped the status of the league.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Zlatan created his legacy all over Europe, playing in almost every major league in the world, playing for the biggest clubs.
Zlatan joined the LA Galaxy at what was perceived as the twilight of his career. It looked like he would live out his days in LA, make a few plays, and retire into the Southern California sun.
Zlatan’s career was prolonged thanks to his time in the MLS. He found himself back in Serie A playing for AC Milan.
Zlatan brought more national TV coverage to the MLS when he was in the lineup. His exciting style of play was appointment TV until he made the trip back to Europe for the last time.
His highlights will forever be remembered against LAFC as they will always be the legacy that will forever follow the rivalry, as it has become one of the league’s best, thanks to Zlatan’s short but epic run in the MLS.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire
Recording Date: 12.01.2012