Vermont’s Championship Hero Maximilian Kissel Drafted by Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami in MLS SuperDraft

Inter Miami CF selected forward Maximilian Kissel with the final pick of the 2026 MLS SuperDraft. The move brings a Cinderella story to South Florida. Kissel was the 90th overall selection on Tuesday.

The draft’s last pick is often called “Mr. Irrelevant.” For Kissel, it is a potential dream ticket. He now has a chance to earn a contract with the MLS Cup champions.

From College Cup Glory to MLS Ambition

Maximilian Kissel is a 23-year-old German-American forward. He authored two iconic championship moments in American soccer. His heroics made him a legend in the state of Vermont.

In 2024, he scored an extra-time winner for the University of Vermont. The goal secured the NCAA College Cup national title. It was the school’s first major soccer championship.

Then in August 2025, he did it again. Kissel netted a stoppage-time winner for Vermont Green FC. That goal clinched the USL League 2 national championship.

His performances earned a midseason watchlist spot for the MAC Hermann Trophy. This award goes to the top player in college soccer. According to NBC, Kissel called his title-winning goal “unbelievable” and thanked the fans.

Inter Miami’s Draft Strategy and Kissel’s New Opportunity

Inter Miami made five selections in the 2026 SuperDraft. Kissel was their final choice. The club now holds his exclusive MLS rights.

He is not guaranteed a first-team contract. The path could include playing for Inter Miami II in MLS Next Pro. His performance there would determine any promotion.

Kissel’s Vermont teammate, goalkeeper Niklas Herceg, was a first-round pick. FC Dallas selected him 16th overall. This shows the talent emerging from the championship program.

For Inter Miami, the draft is about building depth. The club seeks young talent to develop alongside stars like Lionel Messi. Kissel’s proven clutch scoring is an intriguing asset.

The story of Maximilian Kissel takes a remarkable new turn with this Inter Miami draft selection. His journey from Vermont hero to MLS hopeful will be one to watch closely in the coming months.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who is Maximilian Kissel?

Maximilian Kissel is a forward who played for the University of Vermont. He is famous for scoring championship-winning goals for Vermont in both the NCAA and USL League 2 finals in consecutive years.

What does being drafted by Inter Miami mean for Kissel?

It means Inter Miami holds his MLS rights. He will likely get a chance to earn a contract, possibly starting with their MLS Next Pro team, Inter Miami II, to prove his value.

Which other players did Inter Miami draft?

Inter Miami drafted five players total. Their picks included defender Abdel Talabi (30th), midfielder Kenan Hot (32nd), forward Mamadi Jiana (54th), and defender Alex Barger (60th) before selecting Kissel last.

Why is the last draft pick called “Mr. Irrelevant”?

The title “Mr. Irrelevant” is a tradition borrowed from the NFL. It humorously highlights the last player selected, though many with this tag have gone on to have solid professional careers.

Did Kissel win any major awards?

He was named to the midseason watchlist for the MAC Hermann Trophy in 2025. This recognizes the top player in college soccer, highlighting his outstanding season before an injury.