Jersey naming conventions in MLS are, for the most part, pretty straightforward. Each player generally gets his last name on the back of his jersey. If there are multiple players with the same last name on the same team, they get a first initial, too.
That's most of the time. In MLS, like in other international leagues, more than a couple players get to sport nicknames, first names or even full names on the back. The deal? If a player's primary identity in his home country includes a first name or nickname, then he can most likely get an alternate name on the back.
Right now, that applies to 21 players across the league, from megastars like Orlando City's Kaká to younger players like the Vancouver Whitecaps' Kianz Froese. Check out this graphic of all of them and look for your favorites on the pitch this week.
Want to score one of these--or make your own custom jersey for any team? Visit MLSstore.com.
Graphic by Rudy Calderon
