9 MLS players to watch in the second half of the 2026 season

Major League Soccer is back after the 2026 World Cup, and attention is turning to the players who could influence the rest of the season. The article highlights several established stars and emerging talents across the league as clubs resume their push for playoff position and trophies. Among the players to watch are Sebastian Berhalter of the Vancouver Whitecaps, who has produced strong numbers this season after a promising World Cup run, and Kevin Kelsy of the Portland Timbers, whose scoring has helped lead the team’s attack. Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi and new signing Casemiro are also expected to play major roles as the club tries to stay near the top of the Eastern Conference. Other notable names include Robert Lewandowski at Chicago Fire, Antoine Griezmann at Orlando City, Julian Hall at the New York Red Bulls, Son Heungmin at LAFC, and Richie Laryea at Toronto FC. The piece focuses on how each player could shape the second half of the MLS campaign, whether through scoring, playmaking, leadership, or defensive stability.