Major League Soccer. The name itself conjures images of roaring crowds, stunning goals, and the ever-growing passion for the beautiful game on North American soil. Over nearly three decades, MLS has blossomed, evolving from a fledgling league into a vibrant and competitive landscape attracting talent from across the world.
And at the heart of this evolution lie the goals – the moments of brilliance that ignite stadiums and etch players into club folklore.
This is not just a list of names and numbers. This is a journey through the history of each MLS club, celebrating the players who have left a solid footprint mark with their scoring prowess.
These are the players who defied defenders, unleashed thunderous strikes, and consistently found the back of the net, becoming legends in their own right.
Today, we’ll be looking into the stories behind the record-breaking goal scorers who have shaped the identity of their respective MLS clubs.
Contents
- Atlanta United – Josef Martinez (111 Goals, 2017-2022)
- Austin FC – Sebastian Driussi (51 Goals, 2021-2024)
- Charlotte FC – Karol Swiderski (32 Goals, 2022-2025)
- Chicago Fire FC – Ante Razov (88 Goals, 1998-2000, 2001-2004)
- FC Cincinnati – Luciano Acosta (54 Goals, 2021-2025)
- Colorado Rapids – Conor Casey (52 Goals, 2007-2012)
- Columbus Crew – Brian McBride (77 Goals, 1996-2003)
- D.C. United – Jaime Moreno (155 Goals, 1996-2002, 2004-2010)
- FC Dallas – Jason Kreis (97 Goals, 1996-2004)
- Houston Dynamo – Brian Ching (69 Goals, 2006-2013)
- Inter Miami CF – Lionel Messi (44 Goals, 2023-Present)
- LA Galaxy – Landon Donovan (135 Goals, 2005-2014, 2016)
- Los Angeles FC – Carlos Vela (93 Goals, 2018-2023, 2024)
- Minnesota United FC – Robin Lod (35 Goals, 2019-Present)
- CF Montréal – Ignacio Piatti (79 Goals, 2014-2019)
- Nashville SC – Hany Mukhtar (81 Goals, 2020-Present)
- New England Revolution – Taylor Twellman (112 Goals, 2002-2010)
- New York City FC – David Villa (80 Goals, 2014-2018)
- New York Red Bulls – Bradley Wright-Phillips (126 Goals, 2013-2019)
- Orlando City SC – Facundo Torres (47 Goals, 2022-2024)
- Philadelphia Union – Daniel Gazdag (72 Goals, 2021-2025)
- Portland Timbers – Diego Valeri (100 Goals, 2013-2021)
- Real Salt Lake – Alvaro Saborio (79 Goals, 2010-2015)
- San Diego FC – Anders Dreyer (5 Goals, 2025-Present)
- San Jose Earthquakes – Chris Wondolowski (176 Goals, 2005, 2009-2021)
- Seattle Sounders FC – Jordan Morris (87 Goals, 2016-Present)
- Sporting Kansas City – Preki (78 Goals, 1996-2000, 2002-2005)
- St. Louis City SC – Joao Klauss (17 Goals, 2022-Present)
- Toronto FC – Sebastian Giovinco (83 Goals, 2015-2019)
- Vancouver Whitecaps FC – Brian White (68 Goals, 2021-Present)
Atlanta United – Josef Martinez (111 Goals, 2017-2022)
To understand the meteoric rise of Atlanta United as a true MLS powerhouse, one must understand the impact of Josef Martinez. Arriving in 2017 as a relatively unknown quantity to many in North America, the Venezuelan striker quickly transformed into a goal-scoring phenomenon. His relentless energy, predatory instincts in the box, and uncanny ability to find space made him a nightmare for opposing defences.
Over his six-year spell in Atlanta, Martinez wasn’t just scoring goals; he was scoring crucial goals.
He spearheaded the team’s attack, leading them to their historic MLS Cup triumph in 2018, a moment that cemented his legendary status among the Five Stripes faithful. His accolades, including the 2018 MLS MVP and Golden Boot, further emphasise his dominance during this period.
Beyond the trophies and awards, it was the sheer volume of his goals – 111 in all competitions in just 158 appearances – that truly set him apart. He became the face of the franchise, a symbol of their ambition and success.
While his departure in 2022 might have been tinged with some disappointment, the legacy of “King Josef” and his record-breaking goal tally will forever be etched in Atlanta United’s history. He wasn’t just a scorer; he was the catalyst that propelled Atlanta to the MLS summit.
Austin FC – Sebastian Driussi (51 Goals, 2021-2024)
When Austin FC burst onto the MLS scene in 2021, they needed a spark, a player who could ignite their attack and capture the imagination of their burgeoning fanbase. They found that spark in Sebastian Driussi.
The Argentine playmaker arrived in the summer of 2021 with a pedigree honed in the demanding environments of River Plate and Zenit Saint Petersburg, boasting experience in prestigious competitions like the Champions League and Copa Libertadores.
Driussi’s transition to MLS was seamless and impactful. He quickly established himself as the creative hub and primary goal threat for the Verde and Black. His elegant dribbling, incisive passing, and clinical finishing made him a constant menace to opposing defences.
In a short span of four years, he not only became Austin FC’s all-time leading scorer with 51 goals but also the driving force behind their remarkable journey to the MLS Cup final in 2022.
His impact extended beyond just goals. He brought a level of sophistication and flair to Austin’s attack, elevating the team’s overall quality. His ability to both create and score made him a true difference-maker, and his record-breaking goal tally is a testament to his consistent excellence in the Texas capital.
He gave the Austin faithful their first taste of playoff excitement and established a high benchmark for future attacking talent at the club.
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Charlotte FC – Karol Swiderski (32 Goals, 2022-2025)
As another expansion team finding its footing in MLS, Charlotte FC needed a reliable goal scorer to lead their line and provide a focal point for their attack. They entrusted that responsibility to Karol Swiderski, their first Designated Player, and the Polish international delivered.
Joining in 2022, Swiderski quickly adapted to the physicality and pace of MLS. His intelligent movement off the ball, aerial prowess, and composed finishing made him a consistent threat in the final third.
While his tenure in Charlotte was relatively short, culminating in a return to Europe in the winter of 2025, his impact on the club was undeniable.
Swiderski’s 32 goals in 85 appearances, coupled with 15 assists, speak volumes about his contribution.
He led the club in scoring in both the 2022 and 2023 seasons, demonstrating his ability to shoulder the goal-scoring burden. More importantly, his goals played a crucial role in guiding Charlotte FC to their first-ever MLS Cup Playoffs appearance, a significant milestone in the club’s young history.
Swiderski proved to be a successful first DP for Charlotte, leaving behind a legacy of crucial goals and a taste of playoff soccer.
Chicago Fire FC – Ante Razov (88 Goals, 1998-2000, 2001-2004)
Ante Razov’s MLS career saw him don the jerseys of several clubs, but it was his time with the Chicago Fire FC that truly defined his legacy. As a member of the “Fire Original” squad that graced the league in its inaugural 1998 season, Razov was instrumental in the club’s early success, contributing to their MLS Cup and U.S. Open Cup victories.
Returning for a second stint in 2001, Razov continued his prolific scoring form, establishing himself as the undisputed all-time leading scorer for the Fire with 88 goals. His longevity and consistent ability to find the back of the net cemented his place in Chicago soccer history.
Razov was a classic centre forward, possessing excellent positional awareness, a knack for being in the right place at the right time, and a clinical finish.
His record of 88 goals stands as a testament to his enduring quality and his importance to the Chicago Fire during their formative years. He wasn’t just a goal scorer; he was a foundational player who helped build the winning culture that defined the early era of the club.
Even years after his departure, his name remains synonymous with Chicago Fire goals.
FC Cincinnati – Luciano Acosta (54 Goals, 2021-2025)
The relationship between FC Cincinnati and Luciano Acosta is a story of mutual growth and success. When the Argentine playmaker arrived in Ohio in 2021, both the club and the player were looking to elevate their status. Over the next four years, they did just that, together.
Acosta’s arrival injected a much-needed dose of creativity and attacking impetus into Cincinnati’s lineup. His mesmerising dribbling, intricate passing, and eye for goal quickly made him a fan favourite. He became the orchestrator of their attack, dictating the tempo and unlocking defences with his vision.
As Cincinnati’s fortunes improved, so did Acosta’s goal-scoring record. He blossomed into a true offensive force, consistently finding the back of the net while also creating numerous opportunities for his teammates.
His 54 goals during his time with the club not only established him as their all-time leading scorer but also coincided with Cincinnati’s emergence as a genuine MLS contender, culminating in an MVP award and a Supporters’ Shield title. This partnership was a win-win, with Acosta becoming a star and guiding the club to unprecedented heights.
Colorado Rapids – Conor Casey (52 Goals, 2007-2012)
While Conor Casey’s professional journey began in Germany, it was in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains with the Colorado Rapids that the imposing American striker truly found his home and his most significant success.
Joining the club in 2007, Casey quickly became the focal point of their attack, renowned for his physicality, aerial ability, and powerful finishing.
Over six seasons with the Rapids, Casey was a consistent goal-scoring threat, notching double-digit goal tallies in three separate campaigns. His contributions were crucial to the team’s success, culminating in their historic MLS Cup victory in 2010.
Although his role in that championship triumph extends beyond just goals, his consistent scoring record solidified his place as a Rapids legend.
Casey’s 52 goals stand as the benchmark for strikers who have donned the burgundy and blue. He was more than just a goal scorer; he was a leader on the pitch, a player who embodied the grit and determination of the Colorado Rapids.
His ability to consistently find the net made him a cornerstone of the team and a beloved figure among the fanbase.
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Columbus Crew – Brian McBride (77 Goals, 1996-2003)
When discussing the pioneers of American soccer and the early legends of the Columbus Crew SC, the name Brian McBride inevitably rises to the top. The former U.S. international was a foundational player for the Black and Gold, representing the club for eight seasons during the league’s formative years.
McBride was a tireless forward, known for his work rate, aerial prowess, and commitment to the team. His 77 goals for the Crew stand as a testament to his consistent scoring ability and his importance to the club’s attack.
He played a pivotal role in establishing the Crew as a competitive force in the early days of MLS, contributing significantly to their U.S. Open Cup triumph.
While an MLS Cup title eluded him during his time in Columbus, McBride’s overall contribution to the club was immense. He was a leader on and off the field, a player who embodied the spirit of the Crew and helped lay the groundwork for future success.
His status as the club’s all-time leading scorer solidifies his place as a true legend in Columbus soccer history.
D.C. United – Jaime Moreno (155 Goals, 1996-2002, 2004-2010)
Fifteen years after hanging up his boots, the name Jaime Moreno remains synonymous with D.C. United and a plethora of club records that may stand for decades to come. The Bolivian striker was a cornerstone of D.C. United’s dynasty in the early years of MLS, a period of unprecedented success for the Black-and-Red.
Moreno’s longevity and consistent excellence are reflected in his staggering 404 appearances and 155 goals for the club. He was a dynamic forward with exceptional technical ability, a keen eye for goal, and a knack for scoring crucial goals in big moments.
He played a pivotal role in D.C. United’s four MLS Cup victories and their numerous other domestic titles, solidifying his status as arguably the greatest player in the club’s history.
His goal-scoring record is not just a number; it represents an era of dominance for D.C. United. Moreno was the talisman, the player who could always be relied upon to produce moments of magic and lead the team to victory.
His legacy extends far beyond his goals, encompassing his leadership, his passion, and his unwavering commitment to the club.
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FC Dallas – Jason Kreis (97 Goals, 1996-2004)
While FC Dallas has evolved and rebranded over the years, the name Jason Kreis remains firmly etched in the club’s history books as their all-time leading scorer. Kreis played for the Texan franchise during its “Burn” era, from the league’s inception in 1996 until 2004, becoming a central figure in the club’s early identity.
He was a tenacious and intelligent forward, known for his tireless work rate and his ability to find space in the attacking third. His 97 goals in nearly 300 appearances for the Burn are a testament to his consistent productivity over a sustained period.
He was a key member of the team that won the club’s first-ever title, the 1997 U.S. Open Cup, further solidifying his legendary status.
His goal-scoring record stands head and shoulders above his successors, with his tally nearly double that of the next closest player. Kreis wasn’t just a scorer; he was a leader and a symbol of the early years of FC Dallas.
His dedication and goal-scoring prowess laid a foundation for the club’s future and ensured his place as a true icon.
Houston Dynamo – Brian Ching (69 Goals, 2006-2013)
Brian Ching’s career was marked by resilience in the face of adversity, overcoming injuries to become a key figure at every club he represented. However, it was with the Houston Dynamo that the Hawaiian native truly shone brightest, becoming the embodiment of the club’s early success.
Joining the Dynamo in their inaugural 2006 season after their relocation from San Jose, Ching quickly established himself as the team’s leader and primary goal-scoring threat. His physical presence, aerial dominance, and determined finishing made him a handful for opposing defenders.
He played a key role in the Dynamo’s back-to-back MLS Cup triumphs in 2006 and 2007, cementing his legendary status among the Orange faithful.
Ching’s 69 goals for the Dynamo represent more than just statistics; they symbolise his leadership and his commitment to the club during a crucial period of growth and success.
He was the experienced player who guided the team, the goal scorer who delivered in big moments, and the embodiment of the Houston Dynamo’s early identity.
Inter Miami CF – Lionel Messi (44 Goals, 2023-Present)
Inter Miami CF may be one of the newer additions to the MLS landscape, but their impact has been nothing short of seismic, and Lionel Messi’s arrival in 2023 is the primary reason. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, widely considered the greatest soccer player of all time, has taken North American soccer by storm.
Despite his relatively short time in Florida, Messi has already shattered expectations and rewritten the Inter Miami record books. His mesmerising dribbling, unparalleled vision, and breathtaking goals have captivated audiences and elevated the profile of MLS globally.
In less than two years, he has already become the Herons’ all-time leading scorer with 44 goals, solid evidence of his enduring brilliance.
Messi’s impact extends far beyond just goals.
He has brought a winning mentality and an aura of greatness to Inter Miami, leading them to their first-ever trophy, the Leagues Cup. His presence has transformed the club both on and off the field, attracting new fans and inspiring a new era of success.
While his goal-scoring record is already impressive, the story of Messi and Inter Miami is still being written, and the records are likely to continue to fall.
LA Galaxy – Landon Donovan (135 Goals, 2005-2014, 2016)
To simply label Landon Donovan as the LA Galaxy’s all-time leading scorer feels almost reductive. He is arguably the greatest American soccer player of all time, and his impact on the LA Galaxy and the entire landscape of MLS is immeasurable.
Joining the Galaxy in 2005, Donovan brought with him a blend of blistering pace, exceptional technical ability, and a relentless competitive spirit. Over two stints with the club, he became the undisputed face of the franchise, leading them to multiple MLS Cup titles and etching his name into Galaxy folklore.
His 135 goals are a testament to his consistent excellence and his ability to deliver in crucial moments.
Donovan’s legacy extends far beyond his goal-scoring record. He was a leader, an innovator, and a true icon of American soccer. He helped elevate the profile of MLS during a crucial period of growth and inspired a generation of young players.
His years with the Galaxy were the pinnacle of his illustrious career, and his goal-scoring exploits are just one facet of his enduring impact on the club and the league.
Los Angeles FC – Carlos Vela (93 Goals, 2018-2023, 2024)
If Hollywood handed out stars for on-field performances, Carlos Vela would undoubtedly have one on the Walk of Fame. The Mexican maestro has been the undisputed king of Los Angeles FC since they arrived in the MLS in 2018.
Vela’s arrival brought a level of artistry and flair that had rarely been seen in MLS before. His mesmerising dribbling, pinpoint passing, and breathtaking strikes quickly made him a fan favourite.
He holds the club record for appearances and is their all-time leading scorer with 93 goals, a testament to his consistent brilliance.
Beyond his goals, Vela has also led LAFC to significant silverware, including an MLS Cup title, two Supporters’ Shields, and an MVP award. In 2019, he set the single-season MLS scoring record with an incredible 34 goals.
Vela is more than just a goal scorer; he is the creative heartbeat of LAFC, the player who can unlock defences with a moment of magic and inspire his team to victory. His legacy in Los Angeles is secure, and his goal-scoring exploits are a key part of his enduring impact.
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Minnesota United FC – Robin Lod (35 Goals, 2019-Present)
Minnesota United’s journey to the MLS began in 2017, and while Christian Ramirez holds the distinction of being their top scorer across all competitions, Robin Lod holds the honour of being their leading scorer in their MLS era.
The Finnish midfielder joined the Loons in 2019 after a spell in Spain’s second division and has steadily become a crucial player for the club. While not a traditional striker, Lod’s intelligent movement, late runs into the box, and composed finishing have made him a consistent goal-scoring threat from midfield.
Lod’s 35 goals represent his growing importance to Minnesota United’s attack.
He has provided a valuable source of goals from a deeper position, contributing to the team’s offensive output and establishing himself as a key player for the Loons. His record highlights the diverse ways in which goals can be scored and the importance of midfielders who can contribute in the final third.
CF Montréal – Ignacio Piatti (79 Goals, 2014-2019)
Piatti’s time with CF Montréal might be considered somewhat underrated in the broader context of MLS history, but his impact on the Quebec club was nothing short of legendary. Over six seasons in Canada, the Argentine playmaker showcased his exceptional talent and left an indelible mark on the club.
Piatti was a dynamic attacking midfielder with exceptional dribbling skills, a creative passing range, and a knack for scoring spectacular goals. His 79 goals in 163 appearances make him the club’s all-time leading scorer and a pure proof of his consistent offensive output.
He was a four-time winner of the Impact MVP award, further highlighting his importance to the team.
Piatti was the creative engine of Montréal’s attack, the player who could unlock defences and produce moments of brilliance. His goal-scoring record is a reflection of his overall quality and his ability to consistently make a difference in the final third.
He is rightfully considered one of the club’s greatest legends, his name synonymous with attacking flair and memorable goals in Montréal.
Nashville SC – Hany Mukhtar (81 Goals, 2020-Present)
Mukhtar’s decision to leave Europe and embark on the American dream has proven to be a resounding success for both the player and Nashville SC. Arriving in Music City for the club’s inaugural MLS season in 2020, the German attacking midfielder quickly established himself as the technical leader and primary goal-scoring threat for the Boys in Gold.
Mukhtar’s impact was immediate and transformative. His exceptional dribbling ability, incisive passing, and clinical finishing made him a constant menace to opposing defences.
He has consistently delivered goals and assists, earning individual accolades such as the MLS MVP and Golden Boot in 2022.
His 81 goals for Nashville SC are a testament to his consistent high-level performances and his importance to the club’s success. He holds the record for most goals scored in a single season for the club and has been the driving force behind their consistent playoff appearances.
His journey in Nashville is a story of a player finding his perfect environment and becoming a true star in MLS.
New England Revolution – Taylor Twellman (112 Goals, 2002-2010)
While Twellman’s name might not always be the first mentioned in discussions of the all-time MLS greats, his impact on the New England Revolution is undeniable. Over eight seasons in Foxborough, the American striker showcased his predatory instincts and lethal finishing ability.
Twellman was a natural goal scorer, possessing excellent movement in the box and a knack for finding the back of the net from various situations. His 112 goals in just 190 appearances, including 101 in MLS regular season play, speak volumes about his prolificacy.
He consistently led the Revolution’s attack and was a key figure in their numerous playoff appearances during his tenure.
Tragically, Twellman’s career was cut short due to injury, forcing his retirement at the young age of 29. Despite the premature end, his goal-scoring record for the Revolution stands as a testament to his talent and his lasting impact on the club.
He remains a beloved figure among Revolution fans and a benchmark for future strikers.
New York City FC – David Villa (80 Goals, 2014-2018)

The star-studded trio of Frank Lampard, Andrea Pirlo, and David Villa generated significant buzz when New York City FC entered the MLS, but it was the Spanish World Cup winner who ultimately shone brightest in the Big Apple.
Villa arrived in 2014 with a glittering resume and quickly established himself as the focal point of NYCFC’s attack. His intelligent movement, clinical finishing, and leadership qualities made him an instant success in MLS.
Over five seasons, he became the Pigeons’ all-time leading scorer with 80 goals in 126 appearances.
Villa’s impact extended beyond his goals. He brought a level of professionalism and winning mentality to the young club. His performances were consistently world-class, even earning him a recall to the Spanish national team during his time in New York.
His goal-scoring exploits laid a foundation for NYCFC’s future success and solidified his place as a club legend.
New York Red Bulls – Bradley Wright-Phillips (126 Goals, 2013-2019)
Like Hany Mukhtar, Bradley Wright-Phillips’ move to MLS revitalised his career and transformed him into one of the league’s most prolific goal scorers. While his European career didn’t reach its full potential, his impact in the United States was nothing short of exceptional.
Wright-Phillips joined the New York Red Bulls in 2013 and quickly became a goal-scoring machine.
His predatory instincts in the box, relentless work rate, and ability to find space made him a nightmare for opposing defences. He won the MLS Golden Boot twice and consistently led the Red Bulls’ attack, becoming their all-time leading scorer with 126 goals in 240 appearances.
His 117 regular-season goals rank him among the top scorers in MLS history, further highlighting his remarkable achievements.
His impact on the Red Bulls was immense, leading them to multiple Supporters’ Shields and establishing himself as a true legend in Harrison, New Jersey.
Orlando City SC – Facundo Torres (47 Goals, 2022-2024)
Facundo Torres’ brief but impactful spell with Orlando City SC can be summed up in one word: lethal.
The Uruguayan winger arrived in 2022 and quickly established himself as the Lions’ primary attacking threat and their all-time leading scorer with 47 goals in just 123 appearances.
Torres possessed a rare combination of blistering pace, exceptional dribbling ability, and a powerful shot. He set the club record for most goals in a single season and became the player involved in the most goals since the club’s inception.
His dynamic performances and consistent goal-scoring prowess made him a fan favourite and a key player in Orlando City’s success, culminating in a U.S. Open Cup title.
His impressive record earned him a move to Brazilian giants Palmeiras in the winter of 2024, leaving behind a legacy of spectacular goals and a high standard for future attackers in Orlando.
Philadelphia Union – Daniel Gazdag (72 Goals, 2021-2025)
Daniel Gazdag has emerged as one of the most talented and prolific attacking midfielders in MLS during his time with the Philadelphia Union. Joining in 2021, the Hungarian international quickly became a vital cog in Jim Curtin’s well-drilled side.
Gazdag’s intelligent movement, late runs into the box, and clinical finishing have made him a consistent goal-scoring threat from midfield. He recorded double-digit goal tallies in three of his four full MLS seasons with the Union, showcasing his consistent offensive output.
By the time he departed for the Columbus Crew in April 2025, Gazdag had etched his name in Union history as their all-time leading scorer with 72 goals. His contributions were recognized with a selection to the MLS Best XI in 2022, highlighting his importance to the team’s success.
Gazdag’s goal-scoring record from midfield is a testament to his tactical intelligence and his ability to impact the game in the final third.
Portland Timbers – Diego Valeri (100 Goals, 2013-2021)
If soccer is an art, then Diego Valeri’s 100 goals for the Portland Timbers are a collection of its finest poems. Unanimously regarded as one of the greatest midfielders in MLS history, the Argentine maestro is, for many, the Timbers’ ultimate legend.
Over nine seasons in the Rose City, Valeri consistently dazzled fans with his exceptional technical ability, his vision, and his knack for scoring crucial goals. He was the creative heartbeat of the Timbers, orchestrating attacks and delivering moments of magic.
His 100 goals are a testament to his consistent high-level performances and his ability to impact the game in all areas of the attacking third.
Valeri led the Timbers to their historic MLS Cup victory in 2015 and consistently delivered moments of brilliance that will be forever etched in the memories of the Timbers Army.
His goal-scoring record is just one facet of his enduring legacy in Portland, a legacy built on skill, leadership, and a deep connection with the club and its supporters.
Real Salt Lake – Alvaro Saborio (79 Goals, 2010-2015)
Alvaro Saborio’s arrival at Real Salt Lake in 2010 marked the beginning of a prolific goal-scoring era for the Costa Rican striker. Named MLS Newcomer of the Year in his debut season, Saborio quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier attacking talents.
Over six seasons with RSL, Saborio was a consistent goal-scoring threat, leading the line with his physical presence, aerial ability, and clinical finishing. His 79 goals in all competitions make him the club’s all-time leading scorer, a record that underscores his consistent productivity.
Saborio also holds club records for most MLS goals, hat-tricks, CONCACAF Champions League goals, MLS Playoff goals, game-winning goals, and goals in a single season.
His impact on Real Salt Lake was immense, providing a reliable source of goals and leading the line with distinction. His goal-scoring prowess cemented his place as a true legend in the club’s history.
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San Diego FC – Anders Dreyer (5 Goals, 2025-Present)
As newcomers to the MLS in 2025, San Diego FC are just beginning to write their history. In their inaugural season, the Danish forward Anders Dreyer has the distinction of being their first-ever goal scorer and currently sits atop their early scoring charts.
Brought in to spearhead their attack, Dreyer made an immediate impact, scoring a brace against the LA Galaxy in their historic opening match. This early burst of goals has established him as a key player for the expansion side and the first name in their record books.
While his goal tally is still in its early stages, Dreyer’s initial contributions have provided a positive start for San Diego FC and offer a glimpse into the potential of their attacking unit.
As the club’s history unfolds, Dreyer’s name will forever be associated with their first goals in MLS.
San Jose Earthquakes – Chris Wondolowski (176 Goals, 2005, 2009-2021)
If there is one MLS scoring record that appears untouchable for the foreseeable future, it belongs to Chris Wondolowski. Widely regarded as the greatest goal scorer in the history of the league, “Wondo” is also the undisputed king of the San Jose Earthquakes’ scoring charts.
Over two stints with the club, Wondolowski defied conventional wisdom with his uncanny ability to find the back of the net. His positional awareness, intelligent movement, and predatory instincts in the box made him a consistent threat, even as he aged.
His 171 regular-season MLS goals are a testament to his longevity and his unparalleled goal-scoring prowess.
Wondolowski’s journey with the Earthquakes saw him experience individual accolades, including an MVP award, and the ultimate team success of an MLS Cup title.
He became the personification of the term “legend” in San Jose, his name forever synonymous with goals and the history of the club. His record is a monument to his dedication and his remarkable career.
Seattle Sounders FC – Jordan Morris (87 Goals, 2016-Present)
Jordan Morris embodies the spirit of the Seattle Sounders FC, a homegrown talent who rose through the club’s academy to become a star for the first team. His connection with the club and the city runs deep, and his contributions on the field have been instrumental to their success.
Morris is a dynamic winger with blistering pace, excellent dribbling ability, and a knack for scoring crucial goals. He has been a key figure in the Sounders’ two MLS Cup victories and their historic 2022 Concacaf Champions League triumph.
In 2025, he surpassed longtime teammate Raul Ruidiaz to become the club’s all-time leading scorer with 87 goals.
Morris’s journey is a testament to the power of homegrown talent and his dedication to his boyhood club. His goal-scoring record is a reflection of his consistent high-level performances and his importance to the Seattle Sounders’ continued success.
Sporting Kansas City – Preki (78 Goals, 1996-2000, 2002-2005)
The early history of MLS is intertwined with the brilliance of players like Preki. The Serbian midfielder, whose full name was Predrag Radosavljevic, was an undisputed legend of American soccer, experiencing the league’s nascent years with the Kansas City Wizards (now Sporting Kansas City).
Preki was a gifted playmaker with exceptional vision, a powerful shot, and a knack for scoring spectacular goals. He won the MLS MVP award twice, the Golden Boot twice, and led the Wizards to their MLS Cup triumph in 2000.
His 79 goals for the club make him their all-time leading scorer, a testament to his consistent offensive output from midfield.
Preki’s impact on Sporting Kansas City and MLS as a whole was immense. He was a game-changer, a player who could dictate the tempo and produce moments of brilliance that could turn a match. His goal-scoring record from midfield is a remarkable achievement and solidifies his place as a true icon of the league.
St. Louis City SC – Joao Klauss (17 Goals, 2022-Present)
João Klauss’s arrival at St. Louis CITY SC in 2022 marked a new chapter in his career and the beginning of the club’s MLS journey. After gaining experience across Europe, the Brazilian forward embraced the challenge of leading the line for the expansion side.
While still in the early stages of his tenure in Missouri, Klauss has already made his mark, establishing himself as the club’s early all-time leading scorer with 17 goals.
His physical presence, hold-up play, and finishing ability have made him a key player for St. Louis CITY SC in their inaugural season.
As the club continues to grow and evolve, Klauss’s goal-scoring record provides a foundation for their attacking ambitions. His early success suggests that his tally could well continue to rise, further solidifying his place in the club’s nascent history.
Toronto FC – Sebastian Giovinco (83 Goals, 2015-2019)
The Sebastian Giovinco era in Toronto will be remembered as a magical period in the club’s history. The “Atomic Ant” arrived in 2015 and transformed Toronto FC into a dominant force in MLS with his breathtaking skill and goal-scoring prowess.
Giovinco was a unique talent, possessing exceptional dribbling ability, a creative passing range, and a knack for scoring spectacular goals from seemingly impossible angles.
His 83 goals in 142 appearances in all competitions make him Toronto FC’s all-time leading scorer and a testament to his consistent brilliance.
During his time in Toronto, Giovinco won an MLS Cup title and an MVP award, leading the Reds to unprecedented success. His impact on the club and the league was immense, attracting new fans and elevating the standard of play.
The memory of Giovinco’s dazzling runs and stunning goals will forever be etched in the minds of Toronto FC supporters.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC – Brian White (68 Goals, 2021-Present)
A product of the New York Red Bulls academy, Brian White found a new level of success when he joined the Vancouver Whitecaps FC in 2021. The American striker has become a consistent goal-scoring threat for the Canadian club.
White’s intelligent movement, aerial ability, and clinical finishing have made him a reliable focal point for the Whitecaps’ attack. With over 160 appearances for the club, he has already surpassed the 60-goal mark and has recorded multiple seasons with double-digit goal tallies.
His consistent performances were rewarded with his first call-ups to the USMNT in 2024, further highlighting his growth and impact.
White’s goal-scoring record represents a significant return on investment for the Whitecaps and solidifies his place as a key player in their current squad.
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