After so much criticism and questioning, it seems that the MLS authorities have finally listened to the players and coaches who were asking for a change in the calendar. After years of debate, the US league is now considering the real option of making changes to the division of the groups for the season and also to the dates on which the matches will be played, something that even received the “OK” from USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino.
MLS is seriously considering abandoning its current spring-to-fall season in favor of the traditional fall-to-spring format, a move that would align it directly with Europe’s top leagues and significantly ease the workload on national teams.
Mauricio Pochettino values MLS change
Asked about the possible change before the national team’s next match, Mauricio Pochettino was categorical in his support. “Well done and congratulations. Fantastic, I think. Great decision,” the strategist said of the changes MLS might implement.
The ability to align with the international calendar will have a great positive impact on players, coaches and clubs
The coach’s visible support is no coincidence. His experience in international soccer has given him an understanding of the challenges posed by the MLS schedule. In the past, Pochettino has faced difficulties in calling up key players from the U.S. league, as their seasons did not coincide with FIFA’s international match windows. By changing the schedule, these call-up problems would be drastically reduced.
This change in MLS would bring several long-term benefits, especially when it comes to larger events such as a World Cup, as at present, under the current MLS scheme, the World Cup, which is played between June and July, would fall right in the middle of the season, forcing clubs and players to deal with complex scheduling and playing rhythm issues. By adopting the European calendar, MLS would ensure that its players can devote themselves fully to their national team responsibilities.
What changes will MLS implement?
The main changes that MLS will implement, in theory, from 2027 onwards, focus on two fundamental aspects: the calendar and the competition format.
The most significant change is the season, to align with the major European leagues and FIFA’s global calendar.
- Current format: Winter to Autumn (February to December).
- New format (from 2027-28): Autumn to Spring (July to May).
- The regular season will begin in mid-to-late July 2027 and conclude with the Playoffs and MLS Cup in late May 2028.
According to experts, there will be obstacles such as broadcasting rights, sponsorship contracts and climatic variations throughout North America. Therefore, the change, although imminent, would not materialize before 2027.
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