As the United States embraces the excitement and traditions of global soccer through the 2026 World Cup, the tournament has proven just as transformative for the players as it has been for the fans. But former American soccer player Alexi Lalas has a different view on the effects of FIFA on the players.

“I think the American experience during the World Cup can certainly have had a positive impact on players,” Lalas said when asked if there is any chance any star players will come and play in MLS after the World Cup experience on X. But I’m not sure it’s changing players’ minds one way or another.

“Also, MLS doesn’t seem to be strategically targeting World Cup players to sign as the league did post-94.”

While many international players might have had a positive impact on them. They might have loved the American stadiums, energy, and cities during a three-week tournament, but it wasn’t enough to rewire their professional goals. For an elite player, the choice of their club is solely based on top-tier sporting prestige and playing in the European league. Lalas argues that a fun summer experience does not translate to career moves.

UEFA is the governing body for soccer all across Europe, while MLS is a domestic professional league operating in the United States and Canada. A country can’t be a reason to select MLS as a career option because it is an altogether unique path. For a rising young star, UEFA might be a stronger approach because it offers the highest level of competition, global prestige, and good financial backing.

MLS was formally unveiled in 1993 as part of the U.S. commitment tied to hosting the 1994 World Cup, and its first matches were not played until 1996. Alexi Lalas was one of the league’s early stars, joining the New England Revolution in the inaugural season, when MLS was building its identity and relevance.

Today, MLS is a stable, multi-billion-dollar entity and does not need elite players to boost it. MLS now also has a global icon like the captain of the Argentina team, Lionel Messi, playing in the league with Inter Miami. Legendary player David Beckham is the co-owner of Inter Miami. So although it has a lot of attractions for players, it still can’t be compared to the pinnacle of the soccer universe.

MLS is a fantastic, highly attractive destination once they have completed their primary goals in the European Champions League, rather than a league they would skip their prime years to join.

Antoine Griezmann has been linked with, and has officially signed for, Orlando City SC after leaving Atlético Madrid. The 2026 FIFA World Cup’s beloved Kylian Mbappé, who is locked in with Real Madrid right now, also shared his thoughts on MLS.

“The American culture is different, there are no limits to ambitions, I like it,” Mbappe said. “Playing in MLS one day? I don’t know… David Beckham mentioned that to me many times. We will see.”