MLS Designated Player Rule: Successes, Failures, and Future

MLS Designated Player rule has transformed Major League Soccer over the past two decades, attracting global stars and elevating the league’s profile. Yet, for every resounding success story like Lionel Messi, Cucho Hernandez, or Son Heung-Min, there are notable missteps—raising the question: why do so many MLS clubs struggle to maximize the potential of their Designated Player (DP) slots?

How the MLS Designated Player Rule Changed the Game

Introduced in 2007, the Designated Player rule was designed to allow MLS teams to sign up to three players whose salaries exceed the league’s salary cap. This was a game-changer, enabling signings like David Beckham, who set the standard for DP impact both on and off the field. Since then, clubs have used the rule to attract international stars and promising talents, aiming to raise competitiveness and marketability.

Cucho Hernandez: The Model Modern DP

Cucho Hernandez’s journey is a textbook example of the DP rule working as intended. After a challenging stint at Watford, Hernandez arrived at Columbus Crew in 2022 amid doubts. Despite reportedly having European options, he chose MLS, with Columbus breaking their usual frugal approach by investing $10 million and nearly $3 million per year in salary. In just two seasons, Hernandez delivered 58 goals in 96 appearances, won two trophies, and finished as the 2024 MVP runner-up—second only to Lionel Messi. Ultimately, Columbus sold him to Real Betis for a reported $16 million, plus a sell-on clause, proving that a well-chosen DP can deliver on and off the pitch.

Where MLS Designated Player Signings Go Wrong

For every Cucho Hernandez or Lionel Messi, there are expensive disappointments like Lorenzo Insigne or Olivier Giroud. Some clubs target aging stars past their prime, hoping for a Beckham-style impact, but end up saddled with big contracts and little return. Others invest in younger talent without the right support structure, leading to wasted potential and stalled development. The inconsistent approach across the league shows that simply signing a big name is not enough—clubs must have a clear vision for how their DP fits into their tactical and cultural identity.

Lessons Learned: Building a Winning DP Strategy

The best DP signings are those that blend talent, value, and marketability. Players like Son Heung-Min or Cucho Hernandez bring both immediate quality and long-term financial upside, whether through transfer profits or on-field success. Meanwhile, teams that rely on marketing appeal alone risk missing out on real progress. The difference lies in scouting, vision, and a willingness to invest not just in a player, but in the infrastructure that supports sustained growth.

MLS Designated Player Rule: Raising the League’s Standard

The DP rule’s intention is clear: raise the league’s standard by attracting world-class talent. While it has succeeded in many cases, the inconsistency across clubs shows there’s still a learning curve. The most successful teams use the rule to build a balanced squad that thrives both on the pitch and in the transfer market.

The Future of the Designated Player Rule

As MLS continues to grow, the DP rule will remain central to its evolution. Clubs are beginning to refine their approach, focusing on younger players with resale potential or proven leaders who can still dominate. With more data and experience, the hope is that fewer slots will be wasted on costly misfires, and more will be spent on players who deliver value in every way.

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Opinion: The DP Rule—A Powerful Tool Needing Smarter Application

While the MLS Designated Player rule is undoubtedly a powerful tool, its full potential is realized only by clubs that combine smart scouting, strategic planning, and financial discipline. As the league matures, more teams need to balance star power with effectiveness—ensuring that every DP slot advances both competitive and commercial success.