By Mythsouka Jean-Philippe

Major League Soccer (MLS) has served as a platform for many Haitian footballers over the years, marking their presence in this prestigious league in North America. With a total of 20 players having played in MLS, Haitian influence has expanded, establishing memorable milestones since Patrick Tardieu’s debut in 1996 with the New England Revolution.

Delving into recent history, the past season saw the participation of three prominent Haitian talents: Fafa Picault, Derrick Étienne Junior and Shanyder Borgelin. However, it is by examining the ranking of the players who have accumulated the greatest number of appearances that we can fully appreciate the impact of the Haitian diaspora in the MLS.

  1. Fabrice Noël – 18 appearances with Colorado Rapids
  2. Sébastien Vorbe – 22 appearances with Los Angeles Galaxy
  3. Peterson Joseph – 38 appearances with Sporting Kansas City
  4. James Marcelin – 39 appearances with Portland Timbers and FC Dallas
  5. Andrew Jean-Baptiste – 40 appearances with Portland Timbers and Chivas USA
  6. Jean-Marc Alexandre – 42 appearances with Real Salt Lake and San José Earthquakes
  7. Soni Mustivar – 66 appearances with Sporting Kansas City
  8. Jean Philippe Peguero – 66 appearances with Colorado Rapids, New York Red Bull and San José Earthquakes
  9. Derrick Étienne Junior – 179 appearances with Atlanta United, New York Red Bull, FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew
  10. Jean Fabrice Picault – 202 appearances with Philadelphia Union, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo and Nashville SC

These figures testify not only to the longevity, but also to the quality of the game offered by these Haitian footballers. From defense to attack, each player left a unique mark, contributing to the influence of Haitian football on an international scale.

The journey of these athletes has been punctuated by challenges and successes, symbolizing the determination and talent that characterize Haitian football. Their exploits helped expand the influence of the Haitian diaspora in the world of sport, inspiring future generations to follow in their footsteps.

In conclusion, the Top 10 Haitian footballers with the highest number of appearances in MLS illustrate a rich history of commitment and success. These players are not only representing their nation on the field, but they are also writing an important chapter in the history of Haitian football in the MLS.

156