The forgotten pioneers of Major League Soccer: How the first MLS stars shaped the league's history

Major League Soccer (MLS) has undergone a remarkable transformation since its founding in 1993, evolving from an emerging league into a reference point for soccer in North America. This growth has largely been driven by players who, at their peak, were considered stars and, over time, have been largely forgotten. These pioneers laid the groundwork for the development and current popularity of MLS.

The early days of MLS and the need for iconic figures

In its initial years, MLS faced significant challenges in attracting both fans and high-quality talent. The league aimed to establish itself in a market dominated by other sports and needed figures who could capture public attention and raise the competitive level.

The strategy of signing international players

To achieve this goal, MLS implemented a strategy focused on recruiting experienced and renowned international players. These footballers not only brought quality to the field but also acted as ambassadors of the sport, promoting soccer in a nation where it was not the predominant sport.

Carlos Valderrama: The Colombian magician who dazzled in the United States

Carlos "El Pibe" Valderrama, known for his iconic blonde hair and exceptional vision on the pitch, was one of the first major stars to join MLS. The Colombian arrived at the Tampa Bay Mutiny in 1996, the league’s inaugural year, and quickly became an icon.

Impact on Tampa Bay Mutiny and the league

Valderrama not only brought his talent to the team but also attracted a fan base that followed his performances with enthusiasm. His presence elevated MLS's profile and demonstrated that the league could attract international-caliber players.

Jorge Campos: The Mexican goalkeeper who revolutionized MLS

Jorge Campos, known for his unique playing style and colorful uniforms, was another pioneer who left an indelible mark on MLS. The Mexican goalkeeper joined LA Galaxy in 1996 and quickly stood out for his ability to play as both a goalkeeper and a forward.

Versatility and charisma at LA Galaxy

Campos’s ability to perform in multiple positions and his charismatic personality made him a popular figure among fans. His presence helped establish LA Galaxy as one of the league’s most recognized teams.

Marco Etcheverry: The Bolivian who led D.C. United

Marco "El Diablo" Etcheverry was a key player in D.C. United’s early success. The Bolivian midfielder joined the team in 1996 and quickly became the creative engine of the squad.

Contributions to D.C. United’s dominance in the 1990s

Under Etcheverry’s leadership, D.C. United won three of the first four MLS championships. His vision and on-field leadership were crucial in establishing a winning culture within the club.

Roberto Donadoni: The Italian who brought European experience to MLS

Roberto Donadoni, a former AC Milan and Italian national team player, was one of the first Europeans to join MLS. He arrived at MetroStars (now New York Red Bulls) in 1996, bringing his extensive experience and skills to the team.

Adaptation and legacy at MetroStars

Though his time in MLS was brief, Donadoni left a lasting impression. His professionalism and work ethic set standards that influenced players and coaches across the league.

Preki: The Serbian-American who shone in Kansas City

Predrag Radosavljević, known as Preki, was one of the standout figures in MLS’s early history. Born in Serbia and later naturalized as an American citizen, Preki played for Kansas City Wizards (now Sporting Kansas City) and stood out for his scoring ability and creativity in midfield.

Achievements and recognition in MLS

Preki remains the only player to win the MLS Most Valuable Player award twice (1997 and 2003) during his career. He also led the league in goals and assists multiple times, cementing himself as an MLS legend.

Tab Ramos: The American pioneer who inspired a generation

Tab Ramos, born in Uruguay but raised in the United States, was one of the first players to sign with MLS. He joined MetroStars in 1996, bringing his international experience to the team.

Influence on the development of American soccer

Ramos not only excelled on the field but also played a crucial role in developing young talent in the United States. His commitment to growing the sport has left a lasting legacy in MLS and American soccer.

Hristo Stoichkov: The Bulgarian who brought his passion to Chicago

Hristo Stoichkov, a former FC Barcelona player and Ballon d'Or winner, joined Chicago Fire in 2000. His arrival in MLS was seen as a milestone, as he brought experience and passion to the team.

Contributions to Chicago Fire and the league’s growth

Although Stoichkov’s time in MLS was relatively short, he made a significant impact. His presence attracted more fans and elevated the competition level in the league, inspiring future players to consider MLS a viable option.

Brian McBride: The American forward who triumphed in Columbus

Brian McBride is regarded as one of the best forwards in American soccer history. He joined Columbus Crew in 1996 and quickly became the team’s top scorer.

International recognition and lasting legacy

McBride’s impact extended beyond his success with Columbus Crew. His goal-scoring prowess led him to excel in international competitions and later in European leagues, setting a precedent for American players aiming to establish themselves abroad. McBride exemplifies how MLS served as a platform for local players to reach higher levels.

The pioneers’ effect on MLS’s growth

The success and legacy of these pioneers were fundamental in helping MLS overcome the initial hurdles that threatened its stability. The players who joined the league in its early years brought not only technical skills and experience but also a level of credibility necessary for the league to position itself as a serious competition. At a time when soccer struggled to carve out a niche in the American sports landscape, these figures made the difference.

Attracting new talent and league expansion

Thanks to the efforts of these pioneers, MLS evolved and established itself as an attractive option for international players and fans. In the following decades, the league began recruiting even bigger names, such as David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimović, and recently Lionel Messi. However, without the initial contributions of players like Valderrama, Etcheverry, and Campos, this growth would have been far more difficult to achieve.

Recognizing the forgotten: Why their story matters

Despite their contributions, many of these players have been left out of the popular discourse surrounding MLS’s history. Fans tend to remember more recent arrivals of megastars, forgetting that the league’s current stability is rooted in the foundations these figures helped build.