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Latino Talent Is the Heartbeat of MLS
Latino talent has long been the heartbeat of soccer in the Americas, and Major League Soccer continues to be a stage where established legends and rising stars display their skills. As the league grows in global recognition, Latino players are not only dominating the spotlight but also redefining the future of the sport in North America. From icons like Lionel Messi to fresh faces like Obed Vargas, here are ten Latino players you need to know right now.
Lionel Messi – Inter Miami – 38
Arguably the greatest footballer of all time, Lionel Messi continues to be the face of Inter Miami and the entire MLS. At 38, the Argentine legend remains the league’s most influential star, drawing global attention to every match. With his vision, leadership, and game-changing magic, Messi isn’t just raising Inter Miami’s level, he’s raising the bar for the entire league.
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Nathan Ordaz – LAFC – 21
A young attacker with dual Mexican and Salvadoran heritage, Nathan Ordaz represents the new generation of Latino talent in MLS. After LAFC’s dramatic qualification for the Club World Cup, Ordaz has the chance to make his mark as part of the team’s offensive trident alongside Denis Bouanga and Olivier Giroud. Quick, versatile, and fearless, he’s poised to become a key name for both club and country.
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Obed Vargas – Seattle Sounders – 20
At just 15 years old, Obed Vargas made history when he signed his first professional contract. Today, at 20, he’s one of the brightest Mexico-American midfielders in MLS. Known for his calmness on the ball and ability to control tempo, Vargas has already lifted the Concacaf Champions Cup and continues to dream of taking his talents to Europe. Even FIFA has listed him among the most promising young players worldwide.
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David Martínez – LAFC – 19
A Venezuelan winger with flair and creativity, David Martínez is quickly making waves at LAFC. Signed from Monagas SC in 2024, he stood out in the South American pre-Olympic tournament before dazzling fans in MLS. Left-footed, technical, and capable of playing as a winger or attacking midfielder, Martínez brings a spark every time he touches the ball. At only 19, he’s already one of the most exciting prospects in the league.
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Telasco Segovia – Inter Miami – 22
Another Venezuelan gem, Segovia has become one of Lionel Messi’s most trusted partners at Inter Miami. Comfortable as a central midfielder or further up the pitch, he brings vision, creativity, and energy to the Garzas’ attack. His versatility makes him invaluable to Javier Mascherano’s system, and his ability to link play with Messi and Suárez has quickly earned him respect from teammates and fans alike.
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Germán Berterame – Monterrey – 26
While plying his trade in Liga MX with Monterrey, Germán Berterame is one of the best Latino forwards connected to MLS tournaments and international competitions. An Argentine striker with an eye for goal, Berterame is clinical inside the box but also intelligent enough to play outside it. Dangerous, consistent, and ruthless, he has built a reputation as one of the region’s most lethal attackers.
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Lucas Ocampos – Monterrey – 31
The Argentine winger is one of the standout players to watch in Liga MX and regional competitions. Alongside Sergio Ramos, Sergio Canales, and Oliver Torres, Ocampos brings experience and leadership to Monterrey under coach Domènec Torrent. Officially signed on September 3, 2024, with a contract until 2027, Ocampos’ arrival marked a major statement of intent for the Rayados. His speed, creativity, and ability to step up in big matches make him a key figure in their campaign.
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Pedro de la Vega – Seattle Sounders – 24
Brought in from Lanús for over €6 million, Argentine winger Pedro de la Vega has brought flair, pace, and creativity to the Seattle Sounders. With the dribbling of a classic number 10 and the speed of a winger, De la Vega is unpredictable in one-on-one situations. Intelligent, versatile, and fearless, he’s one of the Sounders’ key pieces for the future.
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Cristian Roldán – Seattle Sounders – 30
Born in California to Guatemalan and Salvadoran parents, Cristian Roldán has become a true icon for the Sounders. The 30-year-old midfielder is a leader on and off the pitch, captaining his team to success in the Leagues Cup 2025 and earning another call-up to the U.S. national team. His consistency, passion, and versatility have made him one of MLS’s most respected veterans.
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Elías Montiel – Pachuca – 19
Although just 19, Montiel has already made more than 60 professional appearances with Pachuca. The Mexican midfielder is strong defensively, composed under pressure, and dangerous in transition. His performances in Liga MX and Concacaf competitions have sparked European interest, and it feels like only a matter of time before Montiel makes the leap abroad. For now, he remains one of the most promising young Latino players in North America.
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From established icons like Messi to the rising stars of Vargas, Martínez, and Montiel, Latino players continue to be the heartbeat of MLS. They bring flair, passion, and creativity to the league, while inspiring the next generation of footballers across the continent.
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