MLS 2023: Team of the Season

A look at the best starting XI from MLS 2023 Regular Season

As the 2023 Major League Soccer (MLS) regular season came to a thrilling close, it's only fitting to reflect on the standout stars who graced the pitch throughout the year. The season saw intense competition, unforgettable goals, and remarkable achievements by players from various clubs. Here is the best XI of the MLS 2023 regular season, showcasing players who left a lasting mark on the league.

Goalkeeper - Djordje Petrovic, New England Revolution

Kicking off our journey into the MLS 2023 Team of the Season is none other than the impressive goalkeeper, Djordje Petrovic, from the New England Revolution. Petrovic, who later moved to Chelsea, left a resounding impact during his time in MLS. He boasted the best save success rate in the league, a remarkable 78.6%. Although he didn't feature in an MLS game since July, his exceptional performances couldn't be ignored.

Right Back - Brooks Lennon, Atlanta United

Our next star hails from Atlanta United, and he's not a striker or midfielder, but a right-back! Brooks Lennon's contribution was indispensable as he provided nine assists, more than any other defender, and ranked fifth in assists overall. His inclusion in the Team of the Season with a rating of 7.01 showcases the importance of solid defence paired with attacking prowess.

Right Centre-back - Rodrigues, San Jose Earthquakes

Rodrigues, a Brazilian centre-back, stood tall at the heart of the San Jose Earthquakes defence. His remarkable season was marked by winning possession in the defensive third more times than any other player, an astounding 175 times. He also ranked fifth for tackles and interceptions combined, underlining his significance in the squad.

Left Centre-back - Yerson Mosquera, FC Cincinnati

Yerson Mosquera, representing FC Cincinnati. Mosquera's aerial duelling prowess, winning the fifth-most per game (3.3), solidified his place in the Team of the Season with a rating of 7.02. His ability to thwart opposition attacks was crucial for Cincinnati.

Left Back - Kai Wagner, Philadelphia Union

Rounding off the backline is Kai Wagner from Philadelphia Union, a left-back who did more than just defend. Wagner demonstrated his versatility by finishing 12th in assists (7) and delivering 70 key passes, more than any other defender and eighth most overall. His contribution to both defence and attack earned him a rating of 7.32.

Attacking Midfield - Thiago Almada, Atlanta United

Thiago Almada, the second representative from Atlanta United, takes centre stage in the Team of the Season. Almada not only secured his spot in the team but also earned the Player of the Season award. With an impressive 16 assists and 11 goals, he was one of the few players to achieve double figures in both categories. His 93 key passes ranked fourth, and 95 successful dribbles topped the league, resulting in a rating of 7.75.

Central Midfield - Luciano Acosta, FC Cincinnati

Another Argentine sensation, Luciano Acosta, shines in the heart of the midfield. With a rating of 7.69, Acosta boasted an impressive 87 successful dribbles, surpassed only by Almada and Riqui Puig. His 17 goals ranked second in the division, complemented by 10 assists, further justifying his inclusion.

Attacking Midfield - Carles Gil, New England Revolution

Carles Gil, a name synonymous with attacking prowess, solidified his spot in the attacking midfield position with a rating of 7.66. The Spaniard notched up 11 goals and provided eight assists, with an impressive 96 key passes, ranking third overall. His ability to complete 80 dribbles added another layer to his fine campaign.

Right Forward - Cristian Espinoza, San Jose Earthquakes

The second San Jose Earthquakes player in the Team of the Season is Cristian Espinoza. His remarkable season was marked by winning the second-most Player of the Match awards (12) in the league. With 13 goals and eight assists, Espinoza was a consistent performer. His 101 key passes were more than any other player in MLS, and he ranked third for big chances created, earning a rating of 7.41.

Forward - Cucho Hernandez, Columbus Crew

Leading the attacking charge for the Team of the Season is Columbus Crew's Cucho Hernandez. The 24-year-old striker had an impressive tally of 16 goals and seven assists in 2023. What truly set him apart was his audacious nature, taking more shots (165) than any other player. His performances earned him a rating of 7.58.

Left Forward - Denis Bouanga, LAFC

Completing the star-studded XI is Denis Bouanga, the winner of the MLS 2023 Golden Boot. His extraordinary feat of scoring 20 goals, more than any other player, made him a standout performer. Bouanga also finished second for shots (137) in the division. His ability to complete 87 dribbles further solidified his place in the Team of the Season, with a rating of 7.59.

The MLS 2023 Team of the Season is a testament to the incredible talent and skill on display in Major League Soccer. From goalkeepers to defenders, midfielders to forwards, these eleven players have left an indelible mark on the league with their outstanding performances. As the curtain falls on the 2023 season, we can only look forward to the excitement and excellence that the MLS promises to deliver in the years to come.