The 2025 selection sees Denis Bouanga, Lionel Messi and Anders Dreyer headline a cast that defined the season. The XI features midfielders Sebastian Berhalter, Evander and Cristian Roldan, defenders Tristan Blackmon, Alex Freeman, Jakob Glesnes and Kai Wagner, and goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair.
With six first-time honorees and a record number of American and Canadian players since 2015, the Major League Soccer (MLS) Best XI reflects a league growing in talent and diversity.
Forwards Lead the Charge in the MLS Best XI
Denis Bouanga wrote history with three straight 20-goal seasons and LAFC’s all-time scoring record. He added a third consecutive MLS honor thanks to his partnership with Son Heung-Min.
Best XI | Lionel Messi
Most goal contributions by any player this year. 🥇 pic.twitter.com/YH2hXswgG1
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) November 5, 2025
Anders Dreyer erupted for 19 goals and 19 assists, tying the record for goal contributions by a debutant and earning MLS Newcomer of the Year. Golden Boot winner Lionel Messi posted 29 goals and 19 assists and orchestrated attacks with trademark flair.
Their divergent stories, Bouanga’s consistency, Dreyer’s explosive arrival and Messi’s ageless brilliance show how finishing power still defines seasons and highlights the league’s global appeal.
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Midfield & Defense Shine in the MLS Best XI
Sebastian Berhalter powered Vancouver’s midfield with career highs in goals and assists. Evander delivered another 15-goal, 15-assist season for FC Cincinnati, one of only three players to have consecutive 15-goal, 15-assist seasons, and Cristian Roldan added nine assists.
Tristan Blackmon anchored a stingy Vancouver defence, while 21-year-old Alex Freeman scored six goals and three assists. The Philadelphia duo Jakob Glesnes and Kai Wagner provided balance.
Goalkeeping Heroics and Trends in the MLS Best XI
Dayne St. Clair’s 10 clean sheets, 113 saves and 77.93% save rate propelled Minnesota’s keeper into the team, and his 1.00 goals-against average made him the first Canadian honouree since 2021.
The 2025 MLS Best XI revealed patterns: five slots went to U.S. or Canadian players, the most since 2015, and nine clubs were represented. St. Clair joins Vito Mannone and Ike Opara as Minnesota’s third honoree.
Such numbers show why the league is in flux. St. Clair’s presence earned plaudits across the league and in MLS voting.
Amit Mishra’s Thoughts
The 2025 MLS Best XI illustrates how star power and emerging talent mix. Bouanga, Dreyer and Messi lit up the attack; Berhalter, Evander and Roldan set the rhythm; Blackmon, Freeman, Glesnes and Wagner built the wall; and St. Clair guarded the net.
This balance between glamor and graft makes MLS compelling—a snapshot of excellence and a signpost toward a competitive future. Looking ahead, this lineup signals the league’s future.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is in the 2025 MLS Best XI?
St. Clair, Blackmon, Freeman, Glesnes, Wagner, Berhalter, Evander, Roldan, Bouanga, Dreyer and Messi are listed in the best players list. - How many newcomers are in the 2025 MLS Best XI?
Six players earned their first nod in the best XI. - Which expansion player made the 2025 MLS Best XI?
San Diego FC’s Anders Dreyer tied the rookie contribution record. - How many Americans or Canadians are in the 2025 MLS Best XI?
Five players come from the U.S. and/or Canada.
