Not every footballer who racks up massive shirt sales needs to be a global icon or a Ballon d’Or magnet. Sometimes, it’s the steady workhorses who end up winning the hearts—and wallets—of fans.
That’s exactly what’s happening in the MLS this season, as some of the league’s lesser-hyped players are outshining European legends in merchandise sales.
Messi and Suarez Still Dominate the Top Spots
As expected, Lionel Messi remains the undisputed king of MLS shirt sales.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has not only elevated the league’s profile but also captured the attention of fans around the world.
Right behind him is his long-time teammate Luis Suarez, who also made the switch to Miami and has kept the momentum going.
No Room at the Top for Some Big European Names
Despite their impressive résumés, seasoned European stars like Olivier Giroud, Marco Reus, and Sergio Busquets aren’t making waves when it comes to jersey sales.
In fact, Busquets, who shares a locker room with Messi and Suarez at Inter Miami, finds himself way down the list at number 16—far from the top 10 and even outside the top 15.
Surprising Names Climbing the Chart
With Busquets and other big names trailing behind, some unexpected players have found their way into the spotlight.
Miguel Almiron, who previously impressed fans at Newcastle, Hirving Lozano, and former Crystal Palace man Wilfried Zaha have all cracked the top 10 in shirt sales, showing that MLS fans have diverse tastes when it comes to their favorite players.
Ashley Westwood Emerges as a Cult Hero
Perhaps the most surprising figure on the list is Ashley Westwood, a name few would have predicted to be this high up.
Now playing in Charlotte FC under coach Dean Smith alongside Wilfried Zaha, the former Burnley midfielder has landed the 11th spot on the 2025 jersey sales chart.
A Fan Favorite in Charlotte
Since making the move to MLS on a free transfer from Burnley in 2023, Westwood has become something of a cult hero in Charlotte.
Over the past 18 months, he’s put in consistently solid performances, appearing 93 times and scoring six goals for the club.
That reliability on the pitch has clearly resonated with fans.
Solid Career Built on Hard Work
Before his American adventure, Westwood was a regular figure in Sean Dyche’s Burnley squad, helping them stave off relegation for several seasons.
He also played for Aston Villa during their 2016 campaign that ended in relegation from the Premier League.
While his career hasn’t always made headlines, his dedication and professionalism have made a lasting impression—especially now in the MLS.
What Lies Ahead?
With jersey sales soaring and his role in Charlotte secure, Westwood’s American chapter is turning out to be one of the most rewarding periods of his career.
Whether or not he cracks the top 10 next season, his rise up the popularity charts proves that fans still value hard work and commitment as much as star power.