“Antoine Griezmann and six other stars who could join MLS in 2026.”

Major League Soccer (MLS) is becoming a true mecca for football, especially since the arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami in 2023. The impact of this superstar extends beyond his on-field performance; he has attracted a host of other elite players to the league, including Luis Suárez, who now plays alongside him in Miami, as well as Thomas Müller, Son Heung-min, and James Rodríguez, who have also decided to cross the Atlantic to shine on American pitches.

With expectations that more big names in world football will join MLS by 2026, we examine seven players who could make this transition. First on the list is Antoine Griezmann, one of the greatest talents Europe has ever seen.

Griezmann, who has had a successful career in Spain, scoring 204 goals in 552 appearances in LaLiga, has repeatedly expressed his desire to play in MLS, revealing that “I don’t know with which team, but I really want to play there.” The French forward, who is under contract with Atlético de Madrid until 2027, is no longer a guaranteed starter in Diego Simeone’s lineup. MLS clubs, particularly Orlando City, are closely monitoring his situation, as they hold the discovery rights to the player in the league. Sporting director Ricardo Moreira has already traveled to Spain to work on a potential transfer.

Simeone, for his part, does not rule out a mid-season exit, stating: “I hope he always makes the best choice, because he deserves all the affection and everything he needs.” Thus, the possibility of seeing Griezmann shine on MLS pitches is becoming increasingly likely.

Another big name in the spotlight is Casemiro. The Brazilian midfielder, who has been a key figure at Manchester United, could leave Old Trafford at the end of the season, with his contract set to expire. Inter Miami and LA Galaxy are keeping an eye on his situation while the player enjoys a holiday in Miami. The lifestyle of the MLS is a considerable attraction for the midfielder, who could follow in the footsteps of stars like David Beckham.

Bernardo Silva, captain of Manchester City, is also on the radar. With his contract expiring, there are rumors that Chicago Fire is interested, willing to offer a contract that could reach £8.9 million per year. Silva, however, remains a key player under Pep Guardiola’s management, and his departure is still uncertain.

Mohamed Salah, the Liverpool icon, is also being linked to a potential move to MLS. Recently, reporter James Pearce commented that the American league may be a more attractive option than Saudi Arabia for the Egyptian, with San Diego emerging as a viable destination due to the financial backing of an Egyptian mogul.

Philippe Coutinho, who has had a tumultuous journey since leaving Liverpool, is considering a return to American football. With his availability on a free transfer, LA Galaxy may attempt to sign him as a replacement for Riqui Puig.

Lastly, Robert Lewandowski, one of the best forwards of his generation, and Cristiano Ronaldo, although less likely, are also names that could surprise by migrating to MLS. The Polish player has Chicago Fire monitoring his situation, while Ronaldo, excited by the idea of a reunion with Messi in the U.S., could be tempted by the league if he does not see improvements at his current club.

With these stars in prospect, MLS is preparing for a bright future, promising to elevate the level of football in America even further. Let us closely follow how these narratives unfold and what new chapters American football has in store for us.