In soccer, 10 isn’t just a number—it’s a position. And arguably, it’s the game’s most storied position. The 10 is a team’s creative force, the playmaker, the one who draws the crowds with goals, assists, and a little bit of magic. Messi, Pelé, Zidane, Marta, Maradona—all 10s.
Around the world, the 10 is dying out, replaced with tactical systems made to grind out results. But there’s at least one place where the 10 still thrives and thrills: Major League Soccer.
On today’s episode, Taylor investigates how and why the 10 has had a sustained influence on MLS. First, we hear the story of Marco Etcheverry, one of the league’s first great 10s, who helped D.C. United become a dynasty in the early years of MLS. Then we hear from current standouts Evander, Hany Mukhtar, and Djordje Mihailovic about why they love being 10s in MLS.
We also get analysis from The Athletic’s Jeff Rueter and Sacha Kljestan of MLS Season Pass, who made the argument that MLS is the league of the 10 in Offside’s 2024 season preview.
Offside With Taylor Twellman is a Major League Soccer podcast, produced by Apple TV and Rain Delay Media. Follow and listen on Apple Podcasts.
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