MLS executives have expressed mixed feelings about the league's future in an anonymous survey with The Athletic, particularly concerning life after Lionel Messi retires, the current Apple TV broadcasting deal, and the upcoming Club World Cup.
While some executives believe MLS has fully capitalized on Messi's arrival, stating that "going after the world's best player and bringing them here shows that it's pretty damn important and a pretty big statement," others voiced concerns about the league's preparedness for his eventual departure. One executive pointedly asked, "What is this going to lead to after he goes?" acknowledging that while Messi has been a "monster" for the league, questions remain about sustainability.
The survey revealed nearly unanimous support for switching to a fall-spring calendar, which executives believe would better align MLS with global soccer. One executive highlighted the current scheduling challenges: "We can't keep playing where our season ends in October and then all of a sudden you play a round of playoff games and then you have an international break, then you play another couple rounds of playoff games, and you're in a thick of it, and then you have another international break." They added, "I mean, you lose all momentum as a team. It's terrible for our game, fans, everybody."
Executives also suggested that aligning with the global calendar would benefit transfer activities. Currently, MLS teams struggle when approaching clubs in secondary markets as they're often focused on European qualification. "Either you grossly overpay or you don't get your guy. Competing in the summer is going to be a little easier," noted one survey respondent.
The league's streaming partnership with Apple TV received criticism from some executives, with one bluntly stating, "They have to end the deal with Apple. It's bad for the fans." Another pushed for more traditional broadcasting options, saying, "I think we have to be on more linear outlets."
Regarding the upcoming USL Division One league, opinions were divided. Some welcomed the competition: "I don't think we should see a new league as a threat. If you are the big player in a market, you better react in such moments with confidence." Others were dismissive, with one executive colorfully commenting, "It's stupid. Just f—ing stop. You have an established league (in MLS) that's beginning to thrive, and like, who are you?"
The Club World Cup, which will feature both Inter Miami and Seattle Sounders representing MLS, generated varying predictions. Some believe Miami will advance past the group stage while Seattle faces tougher prospects. "Tough groups, but I think Miami will be second in the group and they'll be in the knockout stage. I don't think Seattle will," said one executive. Another was more blunt about Seattle's chances: "Seattle in that group - it's going to be a bloodbath."
The survey also touched on Leagues Cup, which has revised its format following criticism last season. While executives appreciated the changes, they emphasized the need for a more continuous MLS season: "It keeps it around longer. I was a fan in the beginning, but we have too many interruptions during our season and our playoffs. We have to fix that. Our season has to be continuous."
As MLS continues to evolve with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, these executive insights highlight both the progress made and challenges ahead for American soccer.
