MLS Stars Pack Their Bags for March Internationals

Picture this: the 2026 World Cup is creeping up like that mate who always crashes your barbecue, and suddenly every international break feels massive. Over 150 MLS players are scarpering off for the two-match March window, some chasing playoff glory, others polishing their FIFA rankings or just getting match-sharp for the big 48-team bash. Inter Miami lead the charge with 11 call-ups, nipped at the heels by FC Cincinnati on eight, while Chicago Fire, LAFC, New England Revolution and Vancouver Whitecaps all boast seven. As SI Soccer highlighted, here are 10 lads worth tracking – some could be making World Cup dreams reality.

Wing Wizards and Goalkeeping Legends

First up, Max Arfsten from Columbus Crew. The USMNT left wing-back has had a bit of a rollercoaster start to 2026, but he's vying for a starter's nod under Mauricio Pochettino. Expect a 3-5-2 setup against Belgium and Portugal in Atlanta – Arfsten shone in that system late last year, helping bag wins over Paraguay, Uruguay, Japan and Australia. He'll battle Antonee Robinson for the spot, but his crosses and counter-attacks could edge it. Fresh off an assist in a 2-1 loss to Toronto FC, can he handle Europe's big boys?

Over in Philadelphia, Andre Blake is Jamaica's rock between the sticks. At 35 with 91 caps, the four-time MLS All-Star is dragging the Reggae Boyz towards their first World Cup since '98. After a bumpy Concacaf qualifying saga and Steve McClaren's shock exit, new gaffer Rudolph Speid has them facing New Caledonia and DR Congo in playoffs for a crack at Group K with Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan. Club form's been ropey, but internationally? Blake's a wall.

Anders Dreyer is San Diego FC's golden boy, and Denmark are banking on his sparkle. The 27-year-old winger – 2025 MLS Newcomer of the Year – has notched 27 goals and 22 assists in his first 50 games. With three goals in eight caps, he's key for UEFA playoffs against North Macedonia, then maybe Ireland or Czechia, to join Group A featuring Mexico, South Korea and South Africa. After Champions Cup nail-biters, he called these 'two finals' – no pressure, eh?

Dual Nationals, GOATs and Young Guns

Talk about a proper pickle: Rayan Elloumi, Vancouver Whitecaps' 18-year-old forward, might debut for Tunisia against Canada – the very nation he played a friendly for in January. Two goals in 10 MLS games make him hot property in the dual-national lottery. Won't make '26, but 2030? This window could swing his allegiance. Proper dramatic, innit?

Then there's the main man himself, Lionel Messi with Inter Miami. At 196 caps and 115 goals, these home friendlies versus Mauritania (No. 115) and Zambia (No. 91) could be his last tango on Argentine turf. Plans for a Finalissima vs Spain got canned, so expect magic – hit 198 caps here, 200th incoming. The GOAT signing off in style?

Don't sleep on Mbekezeli Mbokazi, the 20-year-old South African gem at Chicago Fire. He's started all five MLS games after captaining Orlando Pirates, despite his national boss griping about the move. At 5'10", he's a centre-back with balls – key for Bafana Bafana's World Cup push.

Why It Matters for MLS and Beyond

These lads aren't just clocking air miles; they're auditioning for the greatest show on turf. Inter Miami's dozen-strong exodus leaves the Herons light, but think of the buzz when they return battle-hardened. For prospects like Arfsten and Dreyer, impress here and you're golden for Pochettino or Riemer. Jamaica, Denmark and South Africa need playoffs to punch their ticket, while Messi's just padding stats.

It's a window packed with 'what ifs' – Elloumi picking sides, Blake's swan song, Mbokazi proving his gaffer wrong. MLS is pumping talent into the global game, and with the World Cup Stateside-bound, these March jaunts are pure prep. Grab the popcorn; this could shape squads for years.