Major League Soccer revealed their annual 22 Under 22 list, shining a light on the best young gems in the league currently.
The list ranks the top 22 players aged 22 or younger across MLS. Only players that will be younger than 22 when the 2025 regular season ends were eligible for the recognition. The voting was made up of 64 ballots which included representation from 23 MLS team managers, soccer officers and directors as well as lead scouts, per MLS.
In total, 103 players received votes, but only 22 made the final cut. It’s yet more significant evidence that as the league continues to grow in notoriety and prestige, quality players have been the driving force.
Here’s the full MLS 22 Under 22 list.
MLS 22 Under 22: Full List
2025 MLS 22 Under 22: Positional Breakdown
- Forwards: 7
- Midfielders: 5
- Defenders: 9
- Goalkeepers: 1
Obed Vargas is already one of the best midfielders in all of MLS, with over 100 appearances for Seattle Sounders under his belt. He recently helped Seattle conquer the 2025 Leagues Cup and he became the first Mexico international in MLS history to top the 22 Under 22 list.
Alex Freeman was voted second on the list. A stellar season for Orlando City resulted in Mauricio Pochettino giving him a first ever call-up to the USMNT for the 2025 Gold Cup. He’ll now aim to make the 2026 World Cup roster.
The podium is completed by Charlotte FC’s Idan Toklomati, who has been magnificent for the Crowns since taking over the starting duties following Patrick Agyemang’s move to Derby County.
Austin FC midfielder Owen Wolff and LAFC forward David Martínez round out the top five.
Philadelphia Union is the most represented team on the list with three players. Quinn Sullivan, Olwethu Makhanya and Frankie Westfield all played a role in Philadelphia conquering their second ever Supporters’ Shield title.
The honor of being the youngest player on the list belongs to Peyton Miller. At only 17-years-old, Miller has locked up the starting left back role for New England Revolution. It’s his second appearance on the list, having taken the final spot in 2024.
MLS 22 Under 22: Last 10 Winners
Of the previous nine winners, seven of them migrated to European soccer soon after receiving the recognition. Vargas might be bound for Europe sooner rather than later.
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Best MLS Players Under 22: Full List, Teams, Positions.
