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Football Insider
The Rise of MLS: How Lionel Messi Leads Record Number of MLS Players at 2026 World Cup
Discover how MLS has become a global force in soccer with a record 44 active players named to the 2026 FIFA World Cup squads, showcasing the league's growing impact on the world stage.
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Lionel Messi leads record MLS contingent as 44 active players named to 2026 World Cup squads
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Lionel Messi and the MLS Contingent
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to feature a historic number of MLS players, with a total of 44 active players from the league set to compete in the tournament. Leading the charge is none other than Lionel Messi, who has been a standout performer for Paris Saint-Germain in recent seasons. Messi's move to MLS has not only bolstered the profile of the league but also provided a platform for other talented players to showcase their skills on a global stage. The presence of Messi and other top-tier talent in MLS has undoubtedly raised the level of competition and further solidified the league's position as a growing force in world soccer.
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