What does the future hold for Major League Soccer (MLS) as it gears up for its 2027 season? The league will undergo significant changes, including a new February-to-May campaign that promises to reshape the competitive landscape.
The ‘MLS Sprint Season’ will feature all 30 teams playing 14 regular-season matches from February to April, with the top eight teams from both the Eastern and Western conferences qualifying for the playoffs. The MLS Cup final is scheduled for May 2027, marking a pivotal moment for the league.
This new format aims to enhance the excitement of the league while also determining qualifiers for the 2028 CONCACAF Champions Cup and the 2028 Leagues Cup. Additionally, MLS will implement a mid-winter break in the 2027-28 season, lasting from mid-December to early February.
In a related development, Antoine Griezmann, the French football star and 2018 FIFA World Cup winner, is reportedly on the verge of signing with MLS club Orlando City. Griezmann, who has scored 44 goals for the French national team, has been linked to the club for several weeks and has expressed a desire to play in MLS, showcasing his enthusiasm for American sports.
Despite the primary transfer window of MLS being officially closed, Griezmann is eager to finalize his move, which could occur at the end of the European football season. His presence in the league would elevate the competition, as he is considered one of the best players globally.
As the current season, running from February to December 2026, approaches its conclusion with the MLS Cup final on December 18, the anticipation for the upcoming changes is palpable. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these developments will impact the league and its players.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding Griezmann’s transfer, but his potential arrival in MLS adds an intriguing layer to the evolving narrative of American soccer.