Carlos Vela holds the record as the all-time leading scorer in MLS regular season history with 85 goals. The Mexican forward achieved this milestone during his time with Los Angeles FC from 2018 to 2023, where he became one of the most prolific scorers the league has ever seen.
Vela's record-breaking achievement came after surpassing previous record holders like Chris Wondolowski and Landon Donovan. His 2019 season was particularly spectacular, when he set the single-season scoring record with 34 goals, breaking the previous mark of 31. Vela's combination of technical skill, pace, and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for MLS defenders throughout his career.
It's worth noting that this record applies specifically to MLS regular season play. When including playoff goals, some totals may vary slightly, but Vela's regular season record of 85 goals stands as the definitive benchmark for goal-scoring excellence in Major League Soccer history.