MLS unveil full All-Star roster as Lionel Messi, Son Heung-min, Evander and Tim Ream headline star-studded squad

Major League Soccer has officially announced its complete roster for the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, with Lionel Messi leading a star-packed squad that also features Son Heung-min, Evander, Tim Ream and Thomas Müller ahead of the annual showdown against Liga MX’s best.

Following the fan vote, head coach Dean Smith and MLS Commissioner Don Garber completed the squad with several standout performers from across the league, creating one of the strongest All-Star teams in recent history.

Dean Smith bolsters already impressive squad

The initial fan vote produced a formidable starting group, but Dean Smith’s additional selections have added even more quality and balance.

The Charlotte FC boss included two of his own players while also rewarding FC Cincinnati midfielder Evander, San Diego FC winger Anders Dreyer, Nashville SC striker Sam Surridge and FC Dallas forward Petar Musa for their excellent performances this season.

Nashville SC lead all clubs with four representatives after enjoying a superb campaign that has seen them post a 10-1-3 record and move to the top of the Supporters’ Shield standings with three months remaining in the regular season.

Full 2026 MLS All-Star roster

Defenders

• Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew)
• Lucas Herrington (Colorado Rapids)
• Richie Laryea (Toronto FC)
• Anthony Markanich (Minnesota United)
• Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire)
• Steven Moreira (Columbus Crew)
• Daniel Munie (San Jose Earthquakes)
• Andy Najar (Nashville SC)
• Jackson Ragen (Seattle Sounders)
• Tim Ream (Charlotte FC)

Midfielders

• Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps)
• Pep Biel (Charlotte FC)
• Rodrigo De Paul (Inter Miami CF)
• Evander (FC Cincinnati)
• Carles Gil (New England Revolution)
• Zavier Gozo (Real Salt Lake)
• Hany Mukhtar (Nashville SC)
• Thomas Müller (Vancouver Whitecaps)
• Ashley Westwood (Charlotte FC)

Forwards

• Hugo Cuypers (Chicago Fire)
• Anders Dreyer (San Diego FC)
• Julian Hall (New York Red Bulls)
• Son Heung-min (LAFC)
• Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF)
• Petar Musa (FC Dallas)
• Sam Surridge (Nashville SC)

Will Messi finally feature in the MLS All-Star Game?

Despite earning his third MLS All-Star selection, Messi’s participation remains uncertain.

The Inter Miami captain has never actually played in the showcase event. He missed the 2024 edition due to injury before serving a one-match suspension after he and Jordi Alba opted not to participate in the 2025 All-Star Game despite being voted into the squad.

This year’s situation is once again complicated by international commitments. Argentina are preparing for their FIFA World Cup quarter-final, and should Lionel Scaloni’s side reach the final, Messi could remain on international duty until July 19.

With Inter Miami scheduled to face Chicago Fire on July 22, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s involvement in the All-Star festivities will likely depend on how far Argentina progress in the World Cup.

MLS will be hoping its biggest global attraction can finally make his long-awaited All-Star Game debut after several years of frustration.