Major League Soccer has become a popular destination for top players to end their careers, and a number of factors have contributed to this trend.
First, the league offers high salaries and a stable economy, which makes it an attractive option for players seeking a final lucrative contract.
In addition, MLC's reputation and infrastructure continue to improve, providing spectators with a high-quality football experience.
In addition, the appeal of living in a major U.S. city, coupled with the opportunity to expand your personal brand and explore new markets, is another attraction for these players.
Finally, MLS is less physically demanding than the Euroleague, which allows experienced professionals to continue to contribute at a high level while extending their careers.
Let's take a look at five of the most valuable players in major league history.
5. David Beckham joins Los Angeles Galaxy (2007) – €19.8 million
David Beckham's move to Los America Galaxy from Real Madrid in 2007 marked an important milestone in Major League Soccer's growth and global recognition.
As the world's best-known soccer player, David Beckham's entry into the American league brought huge attention to American soccer. David Beckham's move is not only a transfer of talent, but also a strategic business move.
Beckham's presence in the major leagues sparked interest from fans, sponsors, and the media, which boosted viewership, television ratings, and merchandise sales.
Beyond his contributions on the field, David Beckham's influence extends far beyond the sport itself, where he played a key role in raising the profile of American football and paving the way for future international stars.
4. Thiago Almada joins Atalanta United (2022) – €20 million
Thiago Almada is Messi's compatriot, also known as the "new Messi", whose move to Atalanta United in 2022 has generated great excitement and anticipation among fans and experts.
Almada is already considered one of the most promising young players in South America, bringing new breakthroughs to Atalanta United's attack with his excellent dribbling skills, creativity and goalscoring ability.
The move also shows the appeal of Major League Leagues to talented young players, a move by Almada that demonstrates Atlanta United's ambition to keep challenging for the title, with his transfer market valued at €20 million at the time of his transfer.
3. Pitti Martinez joins Atalanta United (2019) – €20 million
Martinez's move from River Plate to Atlanta United is a highly anticipated move that also shows the growing appeal of Major League League.
As South America's Player of the Year 2019, Martinez brings tremendous skill and creativity to Atlanta United. The transfer is an important ambition for both the player and the club, with Martinez aiming to continue winning in the new league.
The transfer underscores the appeal of the major leagues to top talent, with Martinez arriving at Atlanta United worth €20 million.
2. Insigne joins Toronto FC (2022) – €25 million
Former Napoli captain Insigne, who joined the Toronto club in July 2022, signed a four-year contract with Toronto FC with a reported contract value of $14 million per year.
That made Insigne the highest-paid player in major league history at the time, who was just 31 years old when he transferred and had already spent his entire career at Napoli before joining Toronto.
He is a key member of the Napoli team, having won the Coppa Italia in 2014 and 2020, and he is also part of the Italian team that won Euro 2020.
1. Messi joins Internacional Miami (2023) – €45 million
A few days ago, Messi told the media about his next step, confirming that he would be moving to Major League Press, Miami Internacional on a free transfer.
Messi was linked to his old club Barcelona, but for various reasons he eventually chose to take on a new challenge. He is currently worth €45 million and his arrival will give the big leagues a huge boost.
Messi is arguably the greatest footballer of all time, having given Argentina World Cup glory in 2022. Despite turning 36 soon, Messi is still a world-class player and will greatly enhance the image of the major leagues.