Lionel Messi headlines 2025 MLS Best XI
Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi has been named in the MLS Best XI for the 2025 season after a record-setting campaign with Inter Miami. The Argentine superstar led the league in both goals (29) and assists (19) — becoming only the second player in MLS history to top both categories in a single season.
The 38-year-old forward’s inclusion in the Best XI was never in doubt after his sensational performances helped transform Inter Miami into one of the league’s most entertaining and competitive teams. Messi’s leadership and creativity not only elevated his teammates but also drew unprecedented global attention to MLS.
Messi leads star-studded Best XI
Joining Messi in attack are Denis Bouanga of Los Angeles FC and Anders Dreyer of San Diego FC. Bouanga, representing Gabon, continued his prolific scoring form from last season, while Dreyer — named MLS Newcomer of the Year — made an immediate impact in his debut campaign, earning his first Best XI selection.
In midfield, Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Evander (FC Cincinnati), and Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders) were recognized for their consistency and creativity throughout the season. Berhalter and Roldan both earned their first career Best XI honours.
Related: Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi named Time Magazine's Athlete of the Year
Defensively, the lineup features Tristan Blackmon (Vancouver Whitecaps), Alex Freeman (Orlando City), Jakob Glesnes, and Kai Wagner (both from Philadelphia Union). Blackmon, who was named MLS Defender of the Year, anchored a backline that helped Vancouver return to playoff contention, while Glesnes and Wagner were key to Philadelphia’s league-leading defensive record.
Between the posts, Dayne St. Clair of Minnesota United was named MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, capping off a stellar campaign that saw him lead the league in clean sheets and save percentage.
A Season of Firsts
The 2025 Best XI features six first-time honorees — St. Clair, Blackmon, Freeman, Roldan, Berhalter, and Dreyer — reflecting a growing generation of emerging MLS stars alongside global icons like Messi.
For Messi, however, the recognition marks another milestone in his remarkable career. Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, he has not only lifted the club’s profile but also redefined what success looks like for international stars in American soccer.
With 29 goals, 19 assists, and countless moments of brilliance, Messi’s 2025 season will be remembered as one of the most dominant individual campaigns in MLS history — and yet another chapter in the legend of the Argentine maestro.
2025 MLS Best XI
Forwards: Denis Bouanga (LAFC), Anders Dreyer (San Diego FC), Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF)
Midfielders: Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Evander (FC Cincinnati), Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders FC)
Defenders: Tristan Blackmon (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Alex Freeman (Orlando City), Jakob Glesnes (Philadelphia Union), Kai Wagner (Philadelphia Union)
Goalkeeper: Dayne St. Clair (Minnesota United FC)
SportsLigue