Major League Soccer’s top 10 most valuable players in 2025 paint a picture of a league no longer defined by retirement moves or reclamation projects. Instead, it is one where prime-age stars and global icons coexist, shaping a young, ambitious, and increasingly competitive league.
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) – $21.2M
Still mesmerizing at 37, Messi remains the league’s top draw and highest-valued player, tied for first at $21.2 million. With eight goals and three assists in eleven total matches to start the young 2025 season, his performances are as impactful as ever. While age will eventually drop his value, Messi’s influence on the pitch and league-wide appeal keep him untouchable for now.
Riqui Puig (LA Galaxy) – $21.2M
Tied with Messi, Puig’s market value holds firm despite an ACL injury that has sidelined him for months. At 25, the former La Masia graduate was a key architect in the LA Galaxy’s title run last year. His recovery will dictate whether his value climbs further or slips, but his ceiling remains high.
Emmanuel Latte Lath (Atlanta United) – $19.1M
The $22M record signing from Italy is already delivering. With five goals and two assists early this season, the 26-year-old Ivorian forward is Atlanta’s focal point and climbing fast. If he sustains this form, he could soon challenge the Messi-Puig tier.
Evander (FC Cincinnati) – $14.8M
Acquired in a league-record $12M intra-MLS trade, the Brazilian midfielder has slotted into Luciano Acosta’s former role seamlessly. With goal contributions already on the board, his valuation is justified and has room to grow if Cincinnati competes deep into the postseason.
Kévin Denkey (FC Cincinnati) – $14.8M
Cincinnati’s $16.2M man arrived as Belgium’s top scorer. Though still adjusting to MLS, Denkey has found early goals and plays a central role in the team’s attack. At 24, his value could rise quickly with consistent output.
Gabriel Pec (LA Galaxy) – $12.7M
The 24-year-old Brazilian winger emerged as the Galaxy’s ironman in their 2024 title run. With Puig and Paintsil out, Pec has led the team in assists this season. His value has doubled since arriving from Vasco da Gama, and he may be primed for a European move.
Hirving Lozano (San Diego FC) – $12.7M
The face of MLS’s newest club, Lozano made a stunning return from injury with a goal and two assists in a 3–0 win over Seattle. At 29, his value is likely at its peak, but his star power is fueling San Diego’s foundation.
Miguel Almirón (Atlanta United) – $12.7M
The Paraguayan playmaker has returned home, scoring in back-to-back matches and rekindling his connection with fans. Now 31, Almirón is no longer a sellable asset, but his experience and leadership are invaluable.
Joseph Paintsil (LA Galaxy) – $10.6M
After a 15-goal campaign in 2024, Paintsil opened the 2025 season injured. Now nearing a return, the 27-year-old Ghanaian winger could quickly reassert himself. If he regains form, a jump in value or a move abroad remains possible.
Aleksey Miranchuk (Atlanta United) – $10.6M
The Russian international brings European pedigree to Atlanta’s midfield. With early goals and assists, he has meshed well with Almirón and Latte Lath. At 29, his value is stable, but his impact is already tangible.
MLS’s 2025 valuation leaderboard reflects a league unafraid to invest in talent. Whether it is Messi’s enduring brilliance, Puig’s upside, or the emergence of Denkey and Latte Lath, the market signals a shift: MLS is a place where value is not just preserved—it is grown. You can see the entire list here.
