Best and Worst Designated Players in MLS History: A Comprehensive Analysis

usa - ESPN reviews the top 10 best and worst designated player signings in MLS history as the transfer window opens. From Clint Dempsey to Rafael Márquez, a detailed look at their impact.

Best and Worst Designated Players in MLS History

As the MLS transfer window opens, ESPN reflects on the most impactful designated players in the league's history. From game-changers like Clint Dempsey and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to disappointments such as Mista and Rafael Márquez, these signings have shaped the landscape of Major League Soccer.

Best Designated Players

Clint Dempsey's successful stint with the Seattle Sounders, Zlatan Ibrahimovic's memorable debut with LA Galaxy, and Landon Donovan's contributions to LA Galaxy are highlighted among the top 10 best designated players. Players like Josef Martínez, Thierry Henry, and Lionel Messi have also left a significant mark on the league, elevating their respective clubs to new heights.

Worst Designated Players

On the other end of the spectrum, the list of worst designated players includes names like Mista, Mustapha Jarju, and Frank Rost, whose underwhelming performances failed to meet expectations. Players such as Denilson, Nery Castillo, and Steven Gerrard also make the list for their lackluster spells in MLS, despite their previous successes in other leagues.

Notable mentions go to Blaise Matuidi, Innocent Emeghara, and Raïs M'Bolhi, whose time in MLS was marred by various challenges, including roster rule violations, lack of form, and incompatibility with their respective teams.

While the best designated players have left a lasting legacy on the league with their remarkable performances and achievements, the worst signings serve as cautionary tales of the risks involved in big-money transfers and the importance of finding the right fit for success in MLS.