Bolivian playmakers of the 90s, Argentine MVPs of the 2010s and modern Inter Miami headliners — South America has shaped MLS history more than any other region. Cast your vote!
1Lionel MessiArgentine icon whose Inter Miami arrival made him the biggest South American to ever play in MLS.
2Carlos ValderramaColombian playmaker and 1996 inaugural MLS MVP with the Tampa Bay Mutiny.
3Marco EtcheverryBolivian playmaker who led DC United to three of the first four MLS Cups.
4Diego ValeriArgentine playmaker, the 2017 MLS MVP and Portland Timbers' all-time leading scorer.
5Josef MartinezVenezuelan striker whose 31-goal 2018 MVP campaign powered Atlanta United to MLS Cup glory.
6Guillermo Barros SchelottoArgentine winger and 2008 MLS MVP who led Columbus Crew to their first MLS Cup.
7Juan Pablo AngelColombian striker who joined New York Red Bulls and was twice an MLS Best XI selection.
8Federico HiguainArgentine playmaker, Columbus Crew's leading scorer in their 2015 MLS Cup-final season.
9Maximiliano MoralezDiminutive Argentine playmaker who helped lead NYCFC to the 2021 MLS Cup.
10Cristian EspinozaArgentine winger and San Jose Earthquakes assist leader of the 2020s.
11Luciano AcostaArgentine playmaker and 2023 MLS MVP with FC Cincinnati.
12Sebastian DriussiArgentine forward and 2022 MLS Best XI selection with Austin FC.
13Thiago AlmadaArgentine winger and 2022 World Cup winner who shone for Atlanta United before moving on.
14Mauricio PereyraUruguayan playmaker, Orlando City captain and MLS Best XI midfielder.
15Luis SuarezUruguayan striker who joined Inter Miami in 2024 and immediately became an MLS scoring force.
16Jaime MorenoBolivian striker, three-time MLS Cup winner and longtime DC United top scorer.
17Nelson ValdezParaguayan striker whose Seattle Sounders spell included a 2014 Supporters' Shield.
