The teams that defined an era: MLS all dynasties and legends

Major League Soccer (MLS) has undergone remarkable growth since its inception in 1996, establishing itself as a competitive and attractive league on the global football stage. Throughout its history, several teams have left an indelible mark, creating dynasties and shaping golden eras in the league.

D.C. United: the first MLS dynasty

In the early days of MLS, D.C. United emerged as the dominant team, establishing a legacy that would lay the foundation for professional soccer in the United States.

Early dominance and consecutive titles

Under head coach Bruce Arena, D.C. United won three of the first four MLS Cups (1996, 1997, and 1999) and captured the Supporters' Shield in 1997 and 1999, solidifying its place as the league's first dynasty.

Iconic players

Key figures like Marco Etcheverry and Jaime Moreno played pivotal roles in the team's success. Etcheverry, renowned for his vision and midfield precision, amassed 101 assists during his MLS career, while Moreno became one of the league's all-time leading scorers, recording 133 goals and 102 assists.

LA Galaxy: a powerhouse on the west coast

The Los Angeles Galaxy has been synonymous with success in MLS, building a reputation as one of the league’s most decorated franchises.

Golden era and multiple championships

Between 2009 and 2015, LA Galaxy reached four MLS Cup finals, winning the title three times (2011, 2012, and 2014). This period of dominance also included two Supporters' Shields, reflecting their consistency in both the regular season and playoffs.

International stars and lasting legacy

The arrival of international stars like David Beckham, Landon Donovan, and Robbie Keane elevated the team’s profile and the league overall. Beckham, in particular, contributed on the field while drawing global attention to MLS, boosting stadium attendance and television rights value.

Seattle Sounders: consistency and success in the modern era

Since joining MLS in 2009, the Seattle Sounders have proven to be a consistently competitive franchise, establishing a winning culture in the league.

Consistent playoff appearances

The Sounders have qualified for the playoffs every season since their debut, a testament to their stability and consistent performance. They have reached four MLS Cup finals, winning the championship in 2016 and 2019, solidifying their status as a dominant force in the Western Conference.

Passionate fanbase and club culture

The support of their fanbase has been crucial to the team’s success. With some of the highest attendance numbers in the league, the atmosphere at Lumen Field has become an intimidating fortress for opponents and a hallmark of the Sounders' enviable club culture.

Inter Miami CF: a new contender with aspirations of greatness

Founded in 2018 and debuting in MLS in 2020, Inter Miami CF has captured global attention, particularly with the addition of Lionel Messi in 2023, signaling the start of a new era for the franchise.

Lionel Messi's impact and recent achievements

Messi’s arrival revitalized the team, which in 2024 secured the Supporters' Shield with a record-setting 74 points in the regular season. The team also qualified for the playoffs, establishing itself as a serious title contender.

Future projections and potential dynasty

With the rumored addition of Neymar in 2025, Inter Miami aims to reunite former Barcelona stars, recreating the famous 'MSN' trio with Messi and Luis Suárez. This ambitious project seeks to establish a new MLS dynasty, raising the league’s competitive level and drawing international attention.

Legends who left their mark on MLS

Over its history, MLS has been home to players whose talent and charisma have left an enduring legacy in the league.

David Beckham: revolutionizing the league

David Beckham’s arrival at LA Galaxy in 2007 not only raised the level of play but also transformed how soccer was perceived in the United States. His influence attracted other big names and significantly boosted MLS’s global popularity.

Landon Donovan: the eternal captain

Regarded as one of the greatest American footballers of all time, Landon Donovan left an indelible mark on MLS, playing a key role in LA Galaxy's success and setting league records for goals and assists that still stand today.

Lionel Messi: a new chapter in MLS

Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami in 2023 marked a milestone in MLS history. His immediate impact led the team to its first Supporters' Shield while elevating the league’s competitive standard and media attention worldwide.