Brazilian Talent Reshaping U.S. Soccer as MLS and USL Attract Elite International Players

By: Johanna Castro
Miami, FL - In recent seasons, Major League Soccer (MLS) and the United Soccer League (USL) have seen a marked increase in international signings-and Brazilian players are leading the charge. From accomplished veterans to dynamic midfielders with championship credentials, Brazilian footballers are playing an increasingly prominent role in the evolution of the American soccer landscape.

This growth reflects both the technical quality of Brazilian talent and the strategic shift within U.S. clubs toward attracting proven international performers. The impact is being felt across the board-from top-tier MLS rosters to ambitious USL teams aiming to raise their competitive ceiling.

Among the most notable recent additions is Rafael Cabral, the experienced goalkeeper whose career has included stints at Napoli, Santos, and Reading FC. In 2025, Cabral signed with Real Salt Lake, bringing with him a wealth of European and South American top-flight experience. Meanwhile, San Jose Earthquakes extended their contract with Daniel, a consistent presence in goal since 2023, and Los Angeles FC added veteran defender Marlon, who has logged over 250 appearances with clubs including Fluminense and Shakhtar Donetsk.

The Brazilian presence extends well beyond the defensive third. Gustavo Costa, a Brazilian-Portuguese midfielder with an extensive international resume, has emerged as one of the top players under evaluation for entry into MLS. A former champion with Portimonense SC in Portugal and APO Levadiakos in Greece, Costa is known for his midfield leadership, agility, and game control in competitive European environments. Sources familiar with club activity confirm that varios MLS teams has expressed interest in Costa underscoring the club's focus on acquiring proven international talent with top-league experience.

In the USL, Brazilian players are also making their mark. Victor "PC" Giro, formerly with San Antonio FC, has joined Union Omaha after helping lead his previous team to a USL Championship title. Pedro Dolabella signed with North Carolina FC, continuing his rise after a strong showing with Union Omaha. Meanwhile, players like Gabriel Cabral (Miami FC) and Pedro Fonseca (Charlotte Independence) are reinforcing the technical base of squads competing in League One and the Championship.

The motivations behind this wave of Brazilian signings are varied. For players, the United States offers access to a growing league ecosystem, professional stability, and opportunities to compete in a market that is preparing to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For clubs, Brazilian players offer not only technical quality and versatility, but also tactical maturity and international pedigree.

As the U.S. domestic leagues continue to mature, and as talent pipelines diversify, Brazilian players like Gustavo Costa and his compatriots represent a new phase of global integration in American soccer. Their arrival signals not only growth in talent but also a deeper commitment by U.S. clubs to pursue competitive excellence through experienced, high-level professionals.

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