Here are five players who finished the 2026 MLS regular season in stellar form — and will be worth watching when the playoffs kick off after the international break.
Patrick Yazbek (Nashville SC)
Nashville SC set the MLS single-season points record on the final day of the regular season, winning 2-0 on the road against FC Cincinnati to hit a historic 77 points, cementing its spot as one of the greatest teams in league history.
Sam Surridge scored the game-winning pair of goals and could have easily been on this list, but midfielder Patrick Yazbek was exceptional. The Australian international grabbed a primary and secondary assist in the match, and was crucial to exerting control in a difficult away match. He has become an undroppable piece of Nashville’s unprecedented ability to squeeze control out of every single match, and he’ll be a major piece of their push for MLS Cup.
🗓️ Up next: Sunday, Nov. 22 — Nashville vs. Orlando or Cincinnati (Round 1, Game 1)
Quinn Sullivan (Philadelphia Union)
It’s been a long road back to full health for Quinn Sullivan, who missed 300 days with a torn ACL. He’s back to his best just in time for the playoffs, though, logging a goal and an assist in a 4-1 Decision Day win over Toronto FC.
Philadelphia has been one of the hottest teams in MLS since the World Cup break, and they’ve done it all without Sullivan. Let’s not forget, he was pushing into the U.S. national team picture before his injury, and is quietly one of the more effective wingers in the league. He’s going to play a major role in the playoffs.
🗓️ Up next: Saturday, Nov. 21 — Philadelphia at New England (Round 1, Game 1)
SUBSCRIBE TO KEEP READING
Start for $0 & enjoy free unlimited access for 30 days.
- Daily TV listings for U.S. and global soccer.
- Exclusive interviews with players and coaches.
- Expert analysis of top soccer headlines.
- Cancel anytime.
Already have an account? Sign in here.
CHECK OUT MORE STORIES
Not ready to subscribe? Sign up here for our free newsletter.
Already have an account? Sign in here.