For three decades, the MLS has showcased incredible Latin American forwards who defined eras with their skill, flair, and goals. From pioneers like Raúl Díaz Arce and Jaime Moreno to modern icons like Josef Martínez, these players have shaped the league’s identity. Each brought a unique style — from Valeri’s elegance in Portland to Ruiz’s relentless poaching — leaving an unforgettable mark. Their legacies remind fans that Latin America’s passion for football continues to fuel MLS history.
00:00The MLS has seen some of the best Latin American forwards played on the league throughout their 30 seasons of play, scoring goals at will and giving teams and fans something to cheer about.
00:10Here are the 5 Latin American players with the most goals in MLS history, including regular season and playoffs.
00:17Raul Diaz Arce 90 Goals
00:19Raul Diaz Arce isn't just one of El Salvador's finest footballers. He's a true pioneer of the modern MLS era, known for his incredible work ethic and lethal finishing.
00:29He arrived at D.C. United in the league's inaugural 1996 season determined to prove that Salvadoran talent could shine on the international stage.
00:38Even after leaving D.C., Diaz Arce kept finding the back of the net, suiting up for New England, San Jose, Tampa Bay, and Colorado, and even returning briefly to D.C. United.
00:49Diego Valeri 93 Goals
00:51During his 9-year run in the MLS, Argentinian, who joined Portland in 2013 from lands, became the Timbers' regular season leader in goals scored 86 and assists 91, plus ranks 2nd in team history in games played 262 and starts 230.
01:08A 5-time MLS All-Star Honoree, Valeri was named the Landon Donovan MLS MVP in 2017 and earned 3 MLS Best XI recognitions.
01:19He was also named MLS Newcomer of the Year in 2013.
01:23Carlos Ruiz
01:24105 Goals
01:25Few strikers brought as much fire and flair to Major League Soccer as Carlos L. Pescadito Ruiz.
01:32Known for his killer instinct in front of goal and relentless drive, the Guatemalan forward made a lasting mark across a decade in MLS and beyond.
01:41From the moment he arrived in 2002 with LA Galaxy, Ruiz made headlines, helping redefine what a true poacher looked like in the league.
01:50In 2005, he joined FC Dallas in a trade and quickly became their main offensive weapon.
01:56After his stint in Dallas, Ruiz returned briefly to LA Galaxy and later played for Toronto FC, Philadelphia Union, and D.C. United.
02:05Joseph Martinez, 136 Goals
02:08When it comes to pure goal-scoring instinct, few players in MLS history can hold a candle to Joseph Martinez.
02:15The Venezuelan striker isn't just a top forward.
02:18He's a full-blown MLS legend, a player who's spent years rewriting the record books while making it all look effortless.
02:25Since bursting onto the scene with Atlanta United, Martinez has been a one-man highlight reel.
02:30After Atlanta, Joseph took his talents to enter Miami CF and later CF Montreal, proving that his hunger for goals knows no boundaries.
02:39Jaime Moreno, 145 Goals
02:42Before the Global Stars and multi-million dollar transfers, Jaime Moreno was already lighting up the MLS.
02:48One of the league's first true superstars, the Bolivian forward carved his name into history with goals, assists, and an unmatched trophy collection.
02:56Four MLS Cups, four Supporters Shields, two U.S. Open Cups, and a CONCACAF Champions Cup.
03:03A five-time MLS Best XI Selection and long-time Bolivian international, Moreno was the definition of consistency and class.
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