Famous Flips Trivia Quiz

Answer: LA Galaxy

When English soccer star David Beckham arrived from Real Madrid in 2007, it became the most significant signing in MLS history. His move helped raise the league's global profile and and helped usher in the Designated Player Rule, soon nicknamed the 'Beckham Rule.' Under this rule, clubs are allowed to sign a limited number of players whose salaries exceed the league salary cap, with only a portion of that salary counting against the team's cap.

The player's club pays the remainder. Beckham spent six seasons with LA Galaxy, winning two MLS Cups before departing in 2012.

Answer: New York Red Bulls

French striker Thierry Henry joined the New York Red Bulls in 2010 after successful spells with Arsenal and Barcelona. Widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers of his generation, Henry spent five seasons in MLS, helping elevate the league's profile and becoming one of its most recognizable stars.

Answer: Portland Timbers

Argentine playmaker Diego Valeri arrived from Lanús in 2013 and became one of the most influential players of his MLS era. He led Portland to the 2015 MLS Cup championship, earned MLS MVP honours in 2017, and spent nine seasons with the Timbers before returning to Argentina in 2022.

Answer: New York City FC

As the first marquee signing in New York City FC history, David Villa became the face of the club's launch in 2014. The former Spanish international and World Cup winner spent five seasons with NYCFC, scoring goals at an impressive rate and serving as team captain.

Answer: Orlando City SC

Brazilian superstar Kaká was Orlando City's first major signing and helped launch the club into MLS in 2015 after joining the organization in 2014. The 2007 Ballon d'Or winner spent three MLS seasons with Orlando before retiring.

Answer: Atlanta United FC

Paraguayan midfielder Miguel Almirón became the first true superstar of expansion club Atlanta United. His dynamic play helped Atlanta win the 2018 MLS Cup before a record transfer to Newcastle United in England. Though not as famous internationally when he arrived, he became one of the league's most successful exports.

Answer: D.C. United

Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney joined D.C. United midway through 2018 and immediately transformed the club's fortunes. During his two MLS seasons, Rooney helped lead D.C. back into playoff contention before returning to England.

Answer: Los Angeles FC

Uruguayan forward Diego Rossi was one of LAFC's first signings and played a major role in the club's early success. He won the MLS Golden Boot in 2020 before moving to Europe.

Answer: Inter Miami CF

The signing of Lionel Messi in 2023 is often compared to David Beckham's arrival in 2007 in terms of its impact on MLS. Already a World Cup champion and one of the most decorated players in football history, Messi immediately boosted attendance, television audiences, sponsorship revenue, and worldwide interest in MLS.

Answer: Vancouver Whitecaps FC

German World Cup winner Thomas Müller joined the Vancouver Whitecaps in 2025 after spending his entire professional career with Bayern Munich. One of the most decorated players in modern football, Müller brought significant international attention to both Vancouver and MLS.