MLS Early Season Standouts: Top Performers and Their Current Boot Choices
With eight weeks of the MLS season complete, several players have already emerged as early contenders for league honors. This update takes a closer look at
With eight weeks of the MLS season complete, several players have already emerged as early contenders for league honors. This update takes a closer look at the leading goalscorers and creators, along with the football boots they are wearing in 2026. A clear pattern is visible among the top marksmen – a trend that will please one particular brand.
Carlos Vela – LAFC
Vela has been a joy to watch, becoming the first player to reach double digits this season. In nine games, he has netted 10 goals and added 5 assists. LAFC’s free-flowing attack has propelled them to the top of the league table.
The forward keeps his look simple, wearing the adidas X18.1 in an icy white colorway.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic – LA Galaxy
Ibrahimovic missed two early matches but has still bagged 7 goals in only 5 appearances. His box presence is electric – every attacking moment brings the possibility of a twisting side‑foot volley or an overhead back‑heel flick.
Zlatan continues to rely on his familiar Nike Mercurial Vapor XII, the boot he has used since joining MLS. He sees no reason to change when the fit and feel are so comfortable.
Alejandro Pozuelo – Toronto FC
Questions about whether Toronto could replace Giovinco have been answered emphatically. Spanish midfielder Pozuelo has adapted quickly, recording 4 goals and 5 assists in just 4 games.
Like Vela, Pozuelo currently wears the adidas X18.1.
Nani – Orlando City
It took a few matches for Nani to hit his stride, but he is now showing the form that made him a star in Europe. With 4 goals in his last 3 appearances, the Portuguese striker has 4 goals and 4 assists in 8 games overall.
Nani is also sporting the adidas X18.1.
Steve Birnbaum – DC United
Defenders rarely make top‑player lists, but Birnbaum has earned his spot. He has contributed 1 goal, 1 assist, and 4 clean sheets in 8 games. His goal and assist each proved decisive – securing 6 points in separate matches against Orlando and Colorado.
Birnbaum has gone retro, wearing the F50 adiZERO Supernatural boots released in 2014.
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