Overview

• Vargas becomes the first Mexican player to top the ranking after earning his El Tri debut in October 2024 against the United States.
• Orlando City’s Alex Freeman is No. 2 and is described in coverage as tracking toward a U.S. World Cup squad role.
• Fourteen homegrown players make the 2025 list, reflecting a mix of academy graduates and varied routes into MLS.
• Philadelphia Union lead all clubs with three selections on this year’s list.
• The ranking is voted on by coaches, general managers, on-air talent and media and, since 2010, has often preceded national-team breakthroughs and transfers, with MLS Next Pro and the U-22 rule cited as development accelerants.