But 2020 is in the past and, given the success of several of those aforementioned names, clubs all over Europe are looking for the next American star.
The floodgates, seemingly, have opened as top teams from across the Atlantic are ready to pursue players while, unlike in recent years, MLS clubs are ready to sell them too.
Some have recently made the leap, with Brenden Aaronson and Joe Scally having secured their moves to Red Bull Salzburg and Borussia Monchengladbach, respectively.
Others look set to do so in the very near future, including Mark McKenzie and Bryan Reynolds.
Teenage stars such as Caden Clark and Gianluca Busio are unlikely to be far behind either as big clubs continue to watch on.