Over the years, Major League Soccer has welcomed many international icons, including a remarkable lineup of Italian players. While several have left their mark in different ways, some stand out as truly exceptional. This article highlights the best Italian soccer players to ever play in the MLS, showcasing their contributions both on and off the pitch.
The rankings below were determined based on several key metrics: total career achievements (including trophies and personal awards), impact on their respective MLS clubs, their MLS performance (appearances, goals, assists), and influence on fan engagement and merchandise sales. These combined factors provide a holistic view of each player’s legacy in the league.
A six-time Serie A champion and Euro 1996 standout, Donadoni played for the NY/NJ MetroStars in MLS’s inaugural seasons (1996–97). He made 49 appearances, scoring 6 goals and assisting 17. As one of MLS’s first high-profile signings, Donadoni brought legitimacy to the new league and paved the way for future Italian imports.
Bernardeschi joined Toronto FC in 2022 and scored 25 goals with 12 assists across 67 matches. A Euro 2020 champion and former Juventus star, he dazzled with his technique but struggled to lift the club amid inconsistent performances. His popularity remained high, especially during his first season.
One of the greatest defenders of all time, Nesta joined Montreal Impact in 2012. Though past his peak, he brought composure and experience to the backline and helped win the 2013 Canadian Championship. Nesta made 31 MLS appearances and mentored younger players during his tenure.
Insigne, a Euro 2020 winner with Italy, signed with Toronto FC in 2022 as the league’s highest-paid player. He brought immense technical skill and contributed 15 goals and 10 assists in 57 MLS appearances. Despite injury setbacks and a struggling team, Insigne’s arrival boosted TFC’s visibility and marketability dramatically.
Di Vaio was the first Designated Player in Montreal Impact history and delivered immediately. He scored 34 goals in 76 MLS games and was named to the MLS Best XI in 2013. His 20-goal season in 2013 remains one of the most prolific for a European import, and he was instrumental in helping Montreal reach the playoffs for the first time.
Chiellini arrived at LAFC in 2022 after a legendary career at Juventus. Despite joining at age 37, he helped LAFC win the 2022 Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup. His defensive leadership and tactical awareness were crucial during the club’s rise to dominance. He made 35 regular-season appearances, scoring once and assisting once.
A 2006 World Cup winner and Champions League champion, Pirlo joined New York City FC in 2015. Though past his prime, his passing range and vision brought sophistication to NYCFC’s midfield. Pirlo helped guide the team to their first playoff appearance and boosted their global profile. In 60 MLS appearances, he notched 1 goal and 9 assists.
If you ever watched Serie A in the last 15 years, you know exactly how talented this guy was. Giovinco joined Toronto FC in 2015 at the peak of his career and changed the club’s trajectory forever. In his debut season, he scored 22 goals and provided 16 assists, winning the MLS MVP and Golden Boot. Over four seasons, he recorded 68 goals and 52 assists in MLS regular seasons. Giovinco led Toronto to the 2017 MLS Cup, Supporters’ Shield, and three Canadian Championships. His flair, free kicks, and playmaking made him an all-time league great.
From seasoned legends like Donadoni and Nesta to modern stars like Giovinco and Insigne, Italian players have left a lasting legacy in Major League Soccer. Each brought something unique – whether trophies, leadership, or technical brilliance – and helped raise the league’s profile both domestically and abroad.
ChatGPT 
Perplexity 
Google AI 
Claude 
Grok 
