Daniel Salloi Forward Sporting Kansas City #10 Performance Highlights and Impact Analysis
If you follow Sporting Kansas City, you know the name Daniel Salloi. He’s the talented forward in the number 10 shirt, and fans recognize him for his dynamic play and the way he shakes up a match.
Born in Hungary, Salloi worked his way up through the club’s academy. Now, he stands as a key figure for both Sporting KC and the Hungarian national team.
When you watch Salloi, you get more than just goals. He brings creativity, a relentless work ethic, and a knack for stepping up in big moments.
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Kansas City fans have watched him rack up awards and take on leadership roles. He’s become one of the most consistent players in Major League Soccer.
If you want to dive into his journey, his stats, and what the number 10 really means for Sporting KC, check out his career and profile.
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Daniel Salloi: Forward for Sporting Kansas City
When Daniel Salloi steps onto the pitch in Sporting KC’s blue, you notice him right away. He leads the line as the club’s longest-serving player, always ready for the big moments.
Salloi’s status as a homegrown player and his command of the No. 10 jersey show his value and unique story at both club and league level.
No. 10 Jersey Significance
Sporting Kansas City doesn’t just hand out the No. 10 jersey to anyone. This number goes to a player who leads, creates, and drives the attack.
Salloi, who came up through the SKC academy, wears it with obvious pride. It’s a sign of his importance—not just as a skilled forward, but as a core part of the club’s identity.
This status comes with high expectations. Salloi’s rise from Blue Valley Northwest High School exchange student to top pro shows what Sporting KC wants from their No. 10: commitment, consistency, and plenty of technical skill.
The jersey cements his place among SKC’s most trusted leaders.
When you think of Les Bleus, the No. 10 brings to mind legendary playmakers. At Sporting KC, Salloi carries on that tradition, but he does it as a versatile, goal-scoring winger.
It’s a symbol of leadership and attacking threat—two things Salloi brings every time he steps on the field.
Playing Style and Position
Salloi lines up mainly as a left winger, but he’s not shy about drifting inside or playing as a forward if the team needs it. He’s got a knack for late runs into the box, quick link-up play, and spotting through balls in transition.
He can score with either foot, and you’ll see him finish cleanly inside the penalty area. That makes him a constant threat.
Salloi isn’t just about goals, either. He creates chances for teammates and times his movements to open up space for Sporting KC’s attacks.
He reads the game well, using his pace and positioning to stretch defenses. These traits make him effective whether the game is tight or wide open.
Key characteristics:
- Smart movement
- Versatile finishing
- Unselfish with assists
- Dangerous on the break
His role demands quick changes of speed and direction, often leaving defenders scrambling. Salloi also tracks back and presses without the ball, showing a work rate that coaches and fans appreciate.
Key Achievements with Sporting KC
Salloi has become Sporting KC’s longest-tenured player as of 2025. That speaks volumes about his consistency and impact over multiple MLS seasons.
He signed a long-term contract extension through 2026, showing the club’s faith in him as a homegrown player and leader.
In April 2025, Salloi earned MLS Player of the Matchday honors with two goals and two assists—his best single-game goal contribution yet.
He’s been an MLS All-Star and a regular top scorer for SKC. When the pressure’s on, Salloi finds a way to deliver.
Table: Recent Daniel Salloi Stats
| Year | Goals | Assists | Appearances | Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 10 | 7 | 32 | SKC Top Scorer |
| 2024 | 12 | 9 | 34 | MLS All-Star, U.S. Citizenship |
| 2025 | 8 | 8 | 19 | MLS Player of the Matchday (MD 9) |
Off the field, Salloi picked up U.S. citizenship, deepening his ties to Kansas City and its fans. From academy hopeful to fan favorite, his impact at Sporting KC keeps growing.
Professional Career Journey
Daniel Salloi’s journey from a youth standout in Hungary to a key contributor for Sporting Kansas City isn’t just a story of talent—it’s about grit and growth.
He’s navigated homegrown beginnings, loans, and key contracts, with each stage shaping his MLS career.
Early Years and Youth Development
Daniel Salloi grew up in Siófok, Hungary, and you could always find him on a soccer pitch. He started his soccer education with Újpest FC, one of Hungary’s top youth academies.
That environment pushed him to develop technical skill, tactical awareness, and a competitive edge.
His standout play at Újpest FC caught attention from abroad. Watching his father, who played professionally, helped Salloi learn the mental and physical demands of the game.
That guidance, plus regular competition against Hungary’s best young talents, shaped the disciplined forward Sporting KC would later sign.
In 2014, Salloi made a bold move to the United States as an exchange student at The Classical Academy in Texas. That experience exposed him to a new style of play and broadened his understanding of the game.
It set the stage for his jump to the professional ranks.
Transition to Sporting Kansas City
After impressing in Hungary and picking up experience in the U.S., Salloi joined the Sporting Kansas City academy in 2015. This move brought him into one of MLS’s most respected development systems.
Salloi quickly showed he could score and create, standing out among his peers.
In early 2016, Sporting KC signed him as a Homegrown Player, showing their faith in his potential. He made his club debut on April 9, 2017, and his role grew with each season.
The 2018 campaign was his breakout—16 goals and 7 assists in all competitions. Salloi proved he could impact matches at the top level.
His technical skills, quick feet, and sharp movement made him a real problem for opposing defenses. He built chemistry with teammates and learned to handle MLS physicality.
You can read more about his career with Sporting Kansas City at their official team profile.
Contract Extensions and Milestones
Sporting Kansas City’s belief in Salloi showed through their long-term contract offers. In 2022, Salloi signed a new four-year deal, keeping him with SKC through 2026.
He reportedly turned down interest from clubs in Spain and France, making it clear he wanted to stay in Kansas City.
Salloi’s best year statistically? That was 2021. He earned MLS All-Star honors and became a league MVP finalist, thanks to 16 goals and 10 assists.
Those performances earned him national recognition and cemented his value to the team.
Major Milestones Table
| Year | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Notable Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 22 | 3 | 2 | MLS Debut |
| 2018 | 36 | 16 | 7 | Breakout Season |
| 2021 | 36 | 16 | 10 | MLS All-Star, MVP finalist |
| 2022 | — | — | — | Four-Year Contract Extension |
You can catch more news on his contract at Kansas City Star.
Loan Spells and Growth
During his early years at Sporting KC, Salloi spent time on loan with Swope Park Rangers in the USL. He also had a brief loan spell with his old club Újpest FC in Hungary.
These loans gave him the chance to get competitive minutes and help bridge the gap between youth and MLS soccer.
His time at Swope Park helped him adjust to the physical side of the American game and build match fitness. Playing in different leagues forced Salloi to adapt, building resilience and confidence in tough situations.
After each loan, Salloi returned to Sporting KC a little more mature and ready for bigger responsibilities. That willingness to put in the work during loan spells laid the foundation for his breakout seasons.
Major Matches and Contributions
Daniel Salloi has built his reputation at Sporting Kansas City with big-game performances and clutch goal scoring.
He’s made an impact in key tournaments and crucial moments against some of the best teams in the league.
US Open Cup Performance
If you remember the 2017 US Open Cup, you’ll recall Salloi’s breakthrough. He scored crucial goals, including the match-winner in the final against the New York Red Bulls.
Salloi’s finish brought Sporting Kansas City a 2-1 victory and their fourth US Open Cup title.
He showed poise under pressure, combining quick runs with a strong left foot. Salloi kept showing up in cup matches, often involved in key build-ups or finishing big chances.
Here’s a quick look at his US Open Cup stats for Sporting KC:
| Season | Matches | Goals | Game-Winners |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 5 | 4 | 2 |
| 2018 | 3 | 2 | 1 |
That knack for big goals in big games? It’s why Sporting KC fans trust him.
MLS Cup Playoffs Highlights
Salloi has featured regularly in the MLS Cup Playoffs, helping Sporting KC make deep postseason runs. In the 2018 playoffs, he opened the scoring in a high-stakes match against Real Salt Lake.
He doesn’t just score—Salloi creates space, stretches defenses, and delivers crucial assists. During the tense 2021 playoffs, he notched a goal and set up key chances, putting pressure on opponents when it mattered most.
Against clubs like the Portland Timbers and Minnesota United, Salloi’s movement and direct attacking helped secure results. These playoff appearances show why his presence matters on the biggest stages.
Western Conference Success
Salloi’s role in the Western Conference is all about consistency. He’s helped Sporting KC stay near the top of the standings in several regular seasons.
As a left winger, he’s posted double-digit goal contributions multiple times.
Here’s a snapshot of his Western Conference stats:
| Season | Goals | Assists | Key Matches Played |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 11 | 7 | 24 |
| 2021 | 16 | 8 | 28 |
You see Salloi’s name pop up in critical matches, whether it’s against rivals like Seattle Sounders or when points are crucial for playoff positioning.
His efforts have made him one of the Western Conference’s most productive attackers.
Decisive Goals and Records
Daniel Salloi’s knack for decisive goals keeps fans on the edge of their seats. He’s come through with game-winners in league matches and cup finals, always stepping up when Sporting Kansas City needs him most.
That clutch moment in the 2017 US Open Cup Final? Classic Salloi—he just finds a way in those big spots. He’s also pulled off late winners against teams like Houston Dynamo and LA Galaxy. The guy just loves drama, doesn’t he?
By mid-2025, Salloi had racked up over 60 goals and 45 assists for Sporting Kansas City. That puts him right up there among the club’s all-time leaders.
He’s still breaking records. Not long ago, he dropped two goals and two assists in one wild win at San Jose, matching the MLS season-high for a player that year. You can’t ignore his steady influence—season after season, he’s right in the mix.
Want to dig into more stats or relive those key moments? Check out his Sporting Kansas City official profile.
International Career with Hungary
Daniel Salloi’s become a real asset for Hungary’s national team. His story’s got it all—a memorable debut, World Cup qualifiers, and a bigger role with each call-up.
National Team Debut
Fans first watched Daniel Salloi suit up for the Hungary national team back in 2021. His call-up followed some impressive seasons with Sporting Kansas City.
Hungarian fans had their eyes on him, hoping he’d bring that club success to the national stage. When he finally debuted in a UEFA Nations League match, he came off the bench and wasted no time showing off his skills.
It meant a lot, too—his dad, Istvan Salloi, played for Hungary, so there’s some family pride in the mix. That debut put him in a special circle: guys who’ve made it both at home and abroad.
World Cup Qualifier Appearances
After that debut, Salloi didn’t just fade into the background. He got more chances, especially during World Cup qualifying campaigns.
Sometimes he’d start, sometimes he’d come off the bench, but he always brought energy—pressing high, linking up play, working the wings, or sliding in as a second striker.
Those qualifiers? Tough tests. Europe’s top teams don’t make it easy. Salloi kept pushing, supporting Hungary’s attack and looking for any opening. He didn’t always get on the scoresheet, but his movement and game sense stood out.
Here’s a quick look at his competitive appearances for Hungary:
| Match Type | Appearances | Assists | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| World Cup Qualifiers | 4 | 1 | 0 |
| UEFA Nations League | 3 | 0 | 0 |
Role as a Hungarian International
Salloi’s role with Hungary keeps evolving. He mostly lines up as a winger, but coaches move him around—his flexibility is a real asset.
Watch him late in games—he brings a spark, some technical flair, and a relentless work rate. Off the field, his MLS background gives him a different perspective. Younger teammates often ask for advice, knowing he’s adapted to both American and European styles.
He’s committed to Hungary, no doubt about it. Every time he returns from club duty, he’s ready to go. His journey, split between Hungary and the U.S., makes him a unique piece of the national team puzzle.
Personal Life and Citizenship
Daniel Salloi’s story isn’t just about soccer stats—it’s a journey from Hungary to the American Midwest, with some big milestones along the way. You get a better sense of the man behind Sporting Kansas City’s number 10 when you look at his life off the pitch.
Move to Kansas City
Salloi’s path to Kansas City? It all started with soccer dreams. Born in Hungary in 1996, he left home as a teenager, chasing a future in the U.S.
That move was a big leap. He traded the streets of Siófok for a shot at Sporting Kansas City’s youth academy in 2014. Adjusting wasn’t easy, but Salloi leaned into the challenge—new language, new culture, and a shot at pro soccer.
He focused on earning a permanent spot, and in 2016, signed on as a Homegrown Player. That’s how you make it in MLS.
Quick Facts:
| Year Arrived | Country of Birth | Joined Sporting KC Academy | Age on Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Hungary | 2014 | 18 |
Green Card and U.S. Citizenship
Settling in the U.S. meant Salloi had to figure out the immigration maze. He first got a green card, letting him live and work here long-term. That was huge for his career and for Sporting Kansas City.
Fast forward to June 2024—after a decade in America, Salloi stood at Children’s Mercy Park and took the oath as a U.S. citizen. He joined 49 others that day, officially becoming a dual citizen of Hungary and the U.S. That’s a big deal after years of hard work and adapting to a new country.
You can read more about that day at KSHB 41 Kansas City.
Timeline of Key Events:
- 2014: Moved to Kansas City
- 2016: Signed as Homegrown Player
- 2024: Awarded U.S. citizenship
Life in the United States
Being an immigrant means starting over in a lot of ways. Salloi’s now spent more than ten years in Kansas City, and he proudly calls it home.
He often says that support from teammates, coaches, and fans helped him settle in. As a dual citizen, he values both his Hungarian roots and his American life.
Off the field, he hangs out with friends and gets involved in local events. Kansas City’s welcoming vibe really made an impact on him.
He once said, “America and Kansas City just became another home for me” (AllSides). That says it all.
Legacy, Impact, and Recognition
Daniel Salloi’s legacy with Sporting Kansas City just keeps growing. He’s not only delivered on the field, but he’s also given back to the community and earned his place among the club’s most respected players.
Influence within Sporting KC
Every time Salloi steps onto the pitch, you can feel his influence. He started as a Homegrown Player, worked his way up, and now holds the record for most appearances by an Academy product.
Young players in the Academy look up to him. He’s worn the captain’s armband and claimed the No. 10 shirt—those are big honors in Kansas City.
Salloi’s match-winning goals and assists have powered Sporting KC through playoffs and cup runs. He’s stuck with the club, even when other players moved on. That loyalty stands out in MLS.
Here’s a quick stat snapshot:
| Season | Goals Scored | Assists | Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 16 | 7 | 38 |
| 2021 | 16 | 10 | 36 |
| Career (MLS) | 55+ | 35+ | 200+ |
Community Involvement
Off the pitch, Salloi’s impact goes beyond soccer. He’s embraced Kansas City as more than just a place to play—it’s home.
In 2024, he celebrated his U.S. citizenship at Children’s Mercy Park, surrounded by family and fans. That moment showed just how connected he feels to the city.
Salloi gives back through youth programs, local charities, and club outreach events. He’s a regular at meet-and-greets, school visits, and soccer clinics.
His approachable style bridges the gap between the club, the players, and the fans. He’s become a true ambassador for Kansas City.
Records Held and Notable Honors
You’ll spot Salloi’s name all over the Sporting KC and MLS record books. He actually holds the title of all-time appearance leader among Homegrown Players, which really says a lot about how much he means to the squad.
Back in 2021, Salloi put together such a strong season that the league named him an MLS All-Star and even made him an MVP finalist. Not too shabby, right?
The league has picked him as Player of the Matchday more than once, showing just how much he steps up when the lights are brightest. With seasons where he’s put up double digits in both goals and assists, Salloi can honestly stack his numbers against almost anyone in MLS.
He switched his jersey to No. 10—a number with some real weight in the club’s history. Only a handful of guys have worn it, and it’s a nod to his playmaking and leadership on the field.
