aAfter much criticism and questions, MLS authorities appear to have finally listened to the players and coaches who had been calling for changes to the calendar. After years of discussion, the US League is currently considering realistic options such as changing the season’s groupings and game dates, with USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino giving the OK.
MLS is seriously considering abandoning the current spring-to-fall season in favor of a traditional fall-to-spring format. This will work directly with Europe’s top leagues and significantly reduce the burden on national teams.
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Mauricio Pochettino assesses MLS changes
Asked about the possibility of a change ahead of his national team’s next game, manager Mauricio Pochettino was adamant in his support. “Well done. Congratulations. I think it’s great. It’s a great decision,” the strategist said of potential changes MLS might make.
Aligning with the international calendar will have a huge positive impact on players, coaches and clubs.
The coach’s visible support is no coincidence. With our experience in international soccer, we understand the challenges that an MLS schedule presents. Pochettino has previously faced difficulties in recruiting key players from the US League because the season did not coincide with FIFA’s international competition period. Changing the schedule would greatly reduce these convocation problems.
This change in MLS will have some long-term benefits, especially when it comes to large-scale events like the World Cup. Under the current MLS scheme, clubs and players have to deal with complex scheduling and playing rhythm issues, as the World Cup, which is held from June to July, falls right in the middle of the season. By adopting a European calendar, MLS will ensure that players can fully focus on their national team responsibilities.
What changes will MLS implement?
In theory, the main changes MLS will implement after 2027 will focus on two fundamental aspects: the calendar and the tournament format.
The most important change will be the season, which will align with the major European leagues and FIFA’s global calendar.
Current format: Winter to Fall (February to December) New Format (2027 to 2028): Fall to Spring (July to May) The regular season begins in mid-to-late July 2027 and concludes with the playoffs and MLS Cup in late May 2028.
Experts say there will be hurdles across North America, including broadcast rights, sponsorship deals and climate change. So, while this change is imminent, it will not happen before 2027.
