Kristina Roberts
The Major League Soccer (MLS) has announced its 2025 All-Star team, and it’s packed with some of the biggest names in football. The MLS All-Stars will face off against the best players from Liga MX, Mexico’s top football league, in a thrilling match on July 23 at the Q2 Stadium in Austin. This game is always a special event, bringing together the most talented players for an exciting showdown.
This year’s team includes legendary players like Lionel Messi from Inter Miami and Hirving “Chucky” Lozano from San Diego FC. The roster was chosen through a mix of fan votes, player opinions, media selections, and picks by the All-Star coach, Nico Estévez, and MLS Commissioner Don Garber. The final list has 26 players, with a great mix of experienced stars and young talents making their first All-Star appearance.
Meet the 2025 MLS All-Star Team
Goalkeepers:
The team has three strong goalkeepers. Dayne St. Clair from Minnesota United was voted in by the fans, while Brad Stuver from Austin FC and Yohei Takaoka from Vancouver Whitecaps were chosen by the coach. These players have been outstanding this season, making incredible saves and leading their teams to important victories.
Defenders:
The defensive lineup includes eight players who have been rock-solid at the back. Jordi Alba from Inter Miami and Tristan Blackmon from Vancouver Whitecaps were fan favorites, earning their spots through votes. Other defenders like Max Arfsten from Columbus Crew, Michael Boxall from Minnesota United, Alex Freeman from Orlando City, Jakob Glesnes from Philadelphia Union, Andy Najar from Nashville SC, and Miles Robinson from FC Cincinnati were selected by the coach for their consistent performances.
Midfielders:
The midfield is where the magic happens, and this year’s All-Stars have six brilliant playmakers. Sebastian Berhalter from Vancouver Whitecaps and Evander from FC Cincinnati were voted in by the fans. Meanwhile, David Da Costa from Portland Timbers, Diego Luna from Real Salt Lake, Jeppe Tverskov from San Diego FC, and Philip Zinckernagel from Chicago Fire were coach’s picks. These players control the game, create chances, and score crucial goals.
Forwards and Wingers:
The attacking lineup is where the real excitement lies, with nine explosive players ready to light up the field. Lionel Messi, the greatest footballer of all time, was voted in by the fans, proving his massive popularity. Other forwards like Patrick Agyemang from Charlotte FC (Commissioner’s pick), Tai Baribo from Philadelphia Union, Denis Bouanga from LAFC, Anders Dreyer from San Diego FC, Hirving Lozano from San Diego FC, Diego Rossi from Columbus Crew, Brandon Vázquez from Austin FC, and Brian White from Vancouver Whitecaps complete the squad.
Messi and Lozano – The Biggest Stars
Lionel Messi, now 38, continues to amaze fans with his incredible skills. Even at this age, he remains one of the best players in the world, and his inclusion in the All-Star team was no surprise. His Inter Miami teammate, Jordi Alba, also made the list, adding experience and leadership to the squad.
Another major highlight is Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, the Mexican superstar who joined San Diego FC this season. Lozano, known for his speed and dazzling dribbling, was handpicked by Commissioner Don Garber. His presence adds extra excitement to the match, especially since he’ll be playing against some of his former Liga MX rivals.
San Diego FC, a new team in the league, has three players in the All-Star squad—Lozano, Jeppe Tverskov, and Anders Dreyer. This is a huge achievement for a debut team, showing how strong they’ve been in their first season. The last time a new club had this many All-Stars was in 2017 with Atlanta United.
What to Expect in the All-Star Game
The MLS vs. Liga MX All-Star game is always a spectacle. Fans get to see the best players from both leagues compete in a high-energy match. Unlike regular league games, this event is more about entertainment, skill, and fun. Players try fancy tricks, take long-range shots, and put on a show for the crowd.
With Messi leading the MLS team, expectations are sky-high. His chemistry with teammates like Jordi Alba and Diego Rossi could create some breathtaking moments. On the other side, Liga MX will bring their own stars, making it a fierce but friendly battle.
