Icons and Disappointments: A Look at MLS Designated Players
The Major League Soccer (MLS) has seen its fair share of star power since the introduction of the Designated Player (DP) rule in 2007, originally crafted to bring David Beckham to the LA Galaxy. This rule allows teams to sign high-profile players outside the league's salary cap, aiming to boost interest and competitiveness. With the recent opening of the MLS transfer window on Thursday, it's a fitting time to revisit the most impactful and underwhelming signings in the league's history, as highlighted by detailed analyses from sports outlets.
Among the standout successes, Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami has been a game-changer, despite some controversies. His presence has elevated the team's profile, even if results on the field have been mixed. On the other hand, players like Steven Gerrard, who joined LA Galaxy in 2015, have been cited as underwhelming due to limited impact during their tenure. This dichotomy of success and struggle defines the DP legacy in MLS.
Top Performers: The Best of the Best
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s stint with LA Galaxy from 2018 to 2019 is often celebrated as one of the most successful DP signings. Scoring 52 goals in 56 appearances, Ibrahimovic brought flair and results, redefining expectations for star players in the league. His larger-than-life personality also drew significant attention to MLS, proving the value of the DP rule in attracting global talent.
Lionel Messi, despite facing criticism for missing the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, has undeniably transformed Inter Miami since joining in 2023. While his team finished 14th in their conference last season and missed playoffs, Messi's individual brilliance and marketability have been a boon for the league. However, his recent one-game suspension alongside teammate Jordi Alba for skipping the All-Star event has sparked debate about player obligations versus league promotion.
David Beckham himself remains a benchmark for DP success. His move to LA Galaxy not only popularized the rule but also paved the way for future stars, contributing to the growth of soccer's popularity in the United States. Beckham’s on-field contributions were solid, but his off-field impact was monumental.
Costly Flops: The Underperformers
Not all big-name signings have lived up to expectations. Steven Gerrard’s time at LA Galaxy is frequently mentioned among the disappointments. Despite his storied career at Liverpool, Gerrard struggled to adapt to MLS, managing only 5 goals in 34 appearances. His tenure lacked the spark expected from such a high-profile player, marking him as one of the less successful DPs.
Recent sentiment on social platforms reflects mixed views on Messi’s impact as well, with some fans labeling him among the worst signings due to Inter Miami’s poor standings and playoff failures. While his individual stats are impressive, team success has lagged, highlighting the challenges of integrating star players into cohesive units. The DP rule continues to be a gamble, balancing potential glory against significant financial risk for MLS clubs.