With so many great players in MLS Cup 2025 presented by Audi, it’s nearly impossible to choose just five to watch!<\/p>\n
So let’s give an honorable mention to those who might not make the score sheet when Inter Miami CF<\/a> host Vancouver Whitecaps FC<\/a> on Saturday, but could prove to be X-factors (2:30 pm ET | MLS Season Pass, Apple TV<\/a>; FOX, FOX Deportes; TSN, RDS).<\/p>\n Let’s get to it: Here are the players who will make the difference and most likely earn MLS Cup MVP presented by Audi.<\/p>\n The German superstar and Bayern Munich legend has been the perfect fit for Vancouver, pushing them from good to great.<\/p>\n M\u00fcller<\/a> is always directing traffic when the Whitecaps are in possession and leading the press when they are out of possession. Most important are his plays in the final third.<\/p>\n I don’t think I’ve seen a better player in world football who recognizes space and can always play perfect one-touch passes.<\/p>\n We’ve seen M\u00fcller subbed out early in Vancouver’s last two Audi MLS Cup Playoffs matches, and Gauld<\/a> was fantastic off the bench in the Western Conference Final against San Diego FC<\/a>.<\/p>\n Before the Scotland international injured his knee early this season, he was playing at a Landon Donovan MLS MVP-caliber level. He has a great connection with Brian White<\/a> and understands how to operate between the lines and get into dangerous positions.<\/p>\n If this game is close, I expect Gauld to have his say in the last 20-30 minutes.<\/p>\n Sabbi<\/a> has really grown in confidence as the season has progressed and is playing at his best level going into MLS Cup.<\/p>\n He can dribble inside or outside and is equally great with both feet. If Jordi Alba pushes too high and leaves space for Sabbi to get into 1-v-1 situations, the dynamic winger could have a field day.<\/p>\n Watch out for Allende.<\/a> He’s on a tear in these playoffs, tying the league record of eight goals in a single postseason.<\/p>\n The Argentine forward is bringing consistency at the highest level, but most importantly, he understands how to move off Lionel Messi<\/a>.<\/p>\n Playing in that inverted right winger spot, Allende’s almost like a de facto striker when Messi drops underneath to pick up the ball, then he makes those darting runs in behind. He’s also a big body who knows how to use his physicality to bully defenders.<\/p>\n Did you really think I was going to make a list of the players who can make a difference in MLS Cup and leave off the GOAT?<\/p>\n