MLS Designated Player Rule: Successes, Failures, and Lessons Learned

MLS Designated Player rule has been at the center of league evolution since its introduction nearly two decades ago, propelling Major League Soccer into the global spotlight. The concept was simple: allow clubs to sign high-profile stars without being constrained by the league’s salary cap. Today, as the league matures, the Designated Player (DP) rule remains both a blessing and a puzzle, producing global icons like Lionel Messi and Son Heung-Min, but also exposing a pattern of missteps that many clubs continue to make.

How the MLS Designated Player Rule Transformed the League

The DP rule was created to attract marquee talent and spur growth in both quality of play and commercial value. The arrival of global superstars such as David Beckham initially changed the perception of MLS. More recently, Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami and the high-impact signing of Son Heung-Min have demonstrated the transformative potential of the DP slot, drawing global attention and elevating league standards.

Yet, the rule’s promise hasn’t always been fulfilled. For every Messi, there are several underwhelming signings that fail to deliver on the pitch or at the box office, creating a mixed legacy that continues to challenge club executives and sporting directors.

Cucho Hernandez: A Model Modern DP Success

Cucho Hernandez’s journey epitomizes how the MLS Designated Player rule can be leveraged for both sporting and financial success. When Columbus Crew signed Hernandez from Watford in 2022, many questioned the move. The Crew, traditionally careful spenders, invested $10 million and made Hernandez one of their DPs, offering him close to $3 million annually—a significant outlay by their standards.

Despite doubts, Hernandez flourished. Over two seasons, he netted 58 goals in 96 matches, helped Columbus secure two trophies, and was the 2024 MVP runner-up, just behind Lionel Messi. Hernandez’s impact on and off the field made the investment worthwhile, especially when Columbus sold him to Real Betis for a reported $16 million, including a lucrative sell-on clause.

Why the MLS Designated Player Rule Yields Mixed Results

Not all DP signings are as successful as Hernandez. Clubs sometimes gamble on aging European stars or well-known names whose best years are behind them. High-profile disappointments like Lorenzo Insigne and Olivier Giroud—players signed on massive contracts with limited on-field return—highlight the risks.

The inherent flexibility of the DP rule means clubs can choose their own path: some invest in younger, high-upside talents like Hernandez, while others chase quick fixes or marketing splashes. The result? A league where the same rule produces both world-class contributors and costly flops, often within the same season.

Lessons from DP Success Stories

Analyzing successful DP signings reveals common threads: age, hunger, and adaptability. Players like Messi may be outliers in terms of ability and brand value, but younger stars such as Cucho Hernandez or Atlanta United’s Miguel Almirón show that identifying rising talent—rather than simply big names—often pays off in both performance and resale value.

Moreover, integrating DPs into a balanced squad rather than expecting them to carry the team alone is crucial. Columbus Crew’s approach was to supplement Hernandez with strong support, creating a cohesive unit rather than a star-dependent team.

Challenges and the Future of the MLS Designated Player Rule

Despite some clear successes, several clubs are still learning how to maximize their DP slots. The pressure to sign household names sometimes trumps smart scouting and squad-building. As MLS continues to grow, finding the right balance between star power and long-term value will be essential.

League evolution may eventually see modifications to the DP rule, pushing teams toward more sustainable strategies that blend sporting ambition and financial prudence. Front offices must continue to learn from both their own and others’ mistakes if they hope to consistently get the most from their DP investments.

Opinion: The DP Rule Needs Smarter Execution

As the MLS Designated Player rule approaches its 20th anniversary, its impact on the league’s growth is undeniable. However, too many clubs remain caught between chasing big names and building for the future. The most successful teams have used the rule as intended: to raise the level of play, attract global attention, and create a pathway for both sporting and financial return. The lesson is clear—talent, timing, and team fit matter more than star appeal alone. The DP rule remains a powerful tool, but in the ever-evolving world of MLS, smarter execution is key to unlocking its full potential.

For a comprehensive look at all things football, visit for more news.