How many MLS players have won the World Cup?

Major League Soccer had reason to celebrate Argentina defeating France in the 2022 FIFA World Cup at Lusail stadium over the weekend because Atlanta United ace Thiago Almada lifted the trophy. The 21-year-old became the first active MLS player to win the tournament following Argentina’s win on Sunday in Qatar.

Almada didn’t get on the field against France

The 21-year-old received a call up from Argentina’s boss Lionel Scaloni in November to replace injured Joaquin Correa. Almada, who joined Atlanta United on a record transfer fee from Velez Sarsfield in February, was named the 2022 MLS Newcomer of the Year for his breakout campaign with the Five Stripes during the regular season.

Almada also became the first active MLS player to be called up to the Argentina national team and participate in a game. The Atlanta United midfielder made his World Cup debut in the last game of the group stage against Poland coming in as a substitute with six minutes left in the match. Almada played a total of six minutes and he was part of the 26-player roster that won the third title for Argentina at the end of the tournament.

READ ALSO: César Montes to leave Monterrey for Espanyol

Other players who have won the World Cup and played in MLS are Blaise Matuidi (Inter Miami), Bastian Schweinsteiger (Chicago Fire), David Villa (NYCFC), Alessandro Nesta (Montréal Impact), Andrea Pirlo (NYCFC), Kaká (Orlando City SC), Kléberson (Philadelphia Union), Denilson (FC Dallas), Youri Djorkaeff (NY Red Bulls), Thierry Henry (NY Red Bulls), Branco (MetroStars) and Lothar Matthaus (MetroStars).