In the past two decades, Major League Soccer has transformed, a number of Italian icons have made waves on American soil — and left behind stories worth telling. In this article, QuraGoal will take you on a journey through the Italian legends in MLS — their triumphs, controversies, legacy, and what makes them stand out in a league far.
The presence of Italians in MLS: setting the scene
Italian players in MLS have generally arrived in two flavors: aging superstars seeking one last ride, or mid-career talents chasing a fresh platform. Over the years, roughly 19 Italians have played at least one MLS regular season game. (MLS’s foreign player lists confirm this broader footprint.)
But among those, only a handful truly cemented legendary status. What separates a name people casually list from one fans debate for decades? Impact — both on and off the pitch. That’s where we’ll now turn to the key figures.
Icons who defined Italian legacy in MLS
Sebastian Giovinco — “The Atomic Ant” who rewrote the record books
When Sebastian Giovinco landed at Toronto FC in 2015, expectations were high — and he delivered spectacularly. In four seasons, he became Toronto’s all-time top scorer, won multiple domestic trophies, and grabbed individual honors like the MLS MVP, Golden Boot, and a place on MLS Best XI. His 2015 season was historic: he became the first player to tally at least 20 goals and 10 assists in a single MLS campaign.
Giovinco’s flair, dribbling, free kicks, and vision made him a constant danger. He was also instrumental in Toronto’s first MLS Cup (2017) and their treble that same year (MLS Cup, Supporters’ Shield, Canadian Championship). His influence made many consider him the greatest Italian ever to play in MLS.
Lorenzo Insigne — Napoli’s captain embraces a new horizon
In mid-2022, Lorenzo Insigne shocked many by signing a pre-contract with Toronto FC. The former Napoli talisman, used to being adored in Naples, traded one kind of limelight for another. His move made headlines not just for his stature but for the salary he commanded (rumored among the highest in league).
Though his MLS tenure has had ups and downs — adjusting to injuries, form, and the physical toll — Insigne’s arrival signaled ambition, and the league: that MLS would continue attracting high-level European talents even before retirement beckoned.
Andrea Pirlo — maestro comes to New York
When Andrea Pirlo joined New York City FC in 2015, it was more than a signing — it was a statement. A decorated playmaker who had won Serie A, Champions League, and Euro titles, Pirlo entered MLS as a marquee (Designated) player.
Though his time in MLS spanned just two seasons, he influenced the league’s image. He also became notable as the first MLS player to represent Italy while playing there (in Euro qualifiers under Conte). His elegance, passing range, and status brought a slice of Italian midfield romance to the U.S.
Alessandro Nesta — defender’s swan song in Montreal
One of Italy’s most graceful defenders, Alessandro Nesta, closed out his career in MLS. He joined Montreal Impact in 2012, contributing defensively and offering leadership through the 2013 season. Though injuries limited some of his performances, the choice to play in MLS underscored the league’s growing appeal to Italian stars wanting a final stage.
Matteo Ferrari & others: solid contributors
Other names deserve mention. Matteo Ferrari joined Montreal and became a reliable presence in defense across seasons, contributing in 80+ matches for the Impact. Also, Parma youth product Marco Donadel and others had shorter stints, helping broaden the Italian imprint in MLS.
Recently, Federico Bernardeschi joined Toronto FC (2022–2025) as a Designated Player, making waves and adding a fresh Italian chapter. His contributions included goals, assists, and memorable moments like scoring directly from corner kicks (“Olympico”) and earning individual weekly honors. However, in mid-2025 he agreed to terminate his contract mutually, making room for new developments.
Measuring impact: records, trophies, and legacy
What makes an “Italian legend” in MLS? We can look at several metrics:
| Metric | Giovinco | Insigne | Pirlo | Nesta | Ferrari | Bernardeschi |
| MLS seasons | 4 | Ongoing | 2 | ~1.5 | ~3 | ~3 |
| Trophies in MLS | MLS Cup, Supporters’ Shield, Canadian Championships | (none yet) | — | — | Canadian Championships | — |
| Individual awards | MVP, Golden Boot, Best XI | — | — | — | — | Team of Week, matchday honors |
| Records / milestones | First 20 goals & 10 assists season; club’s all-time scorer | High salary, marquee arrival | First MLS player capped for Italy | Symbolic defender signing | Durability and consistency | Notable goals, assists, flair |
Challenges and criticisms
Even legends have challenges. Giovinco’s later seasons were hampered by injuries and inconsistencies. Insigne struggled with physical demands and adaptation. Pirlo’s aging body showed at times. For some Italians, MLS represented a step down in pace or rigor. Critics argue that while MLS offers money and novelty, it can’t match Serie A’s tactical richness or European competition.
Still, many Italians embraced MLS not as an afterthought but as a new frontier. Their journey reflects both personal ambition and the league’s evolving stature.
Italian legends shaping MLS beyond the pitch
Some Italians have continued influencing MLS after retiring as players:
- Giorgio Chiellini joined LAFC as a player in 2022, helping claim the MLS Cup, and later became part of LAFC’s ownership. His leadership and image reaffirm the attractiveness of MLS to top European names, even in retirement.
- Some former Italian players have stayed on as coaches, technical staff, or advisors in North American leagues, lending their experience to coaching development, youth systems, and club strategy.
These moves help link Italian football culture with North American ambitions, and solidify the idea of MLS not just as a retirement league but a possible long-term stage.
Why “Italian legends in MLS” matters
The phrase italian legends in mls isn’t just a jumble of geography and sport — it speaks to how identity, legacy, and transition intersect. These players carried Italy’s footballing culture across the ocean. They drew media attention, expanded fan bases, and helped MLS rebrand itself as a serious destination for global stars.
For fans typing that phrase into Google, they wish to see stories, rankings, stats, and personal profiles. They want to debate: Was Giovinco the greatest? Did Insigne live up to expectations? Which Italian had the most influence off the field?
By exploring those names, stories, and numbers, QuraGoal’s article becomes that return point — the place fans come when they want heart + facts.
Final Thoughts
Italian legends in MLS made more than cameo appearances — they left footprints. From Giovinco’s dazzling seasons to Insigne’s bold leap, from Pirlo’s finesse to Chiellini’s ownership turn, their journeys map out how Italy and MLS can intertwine.
If you want full biographies, head-to-head comparisons, or deeper stats on any one player — just let me know. QuraGoal is ready to dig dee
