Don Garber has been running Major League Soccer for 26 years. But even he admits he's never seen anything like what's happening right now. As MLS kicks off its 31st season this Saturday, the league is sitting at the center of something huge.
Two massive forces are coming together at once. First, the World Cup is returning to North America. Second, Lionel Messi continues to drive unprecedented attention since joining Inter Miami in 2023. It's a perfect storm of soccer excitement.
"This is a massive year for MLS and a seminal moment for soccer, not just in the United States but throughout North America," Garber told Reuters. He's calling the upcoming World Cup "the biggest sporting event in the history of this country."
Seven-Week Break Creates Unique Season
MLS will take a seven-week break mid-season as players head off to represent their countries. That's unprecedented, but Garber sees it as an opportunity rather than a disruption. The league wants the World Cup excitement to spill over into MLS matches.
"We hope that some of that drama, some of that appeal, some of that history, could rub off and create a lasting legacy," Garber explained. For bettors, this means watching how teams handle the break and which squads bounce back strongest when play resumes.
What's changed since America hosted the 1994 World Cup? Back then, MLS needed the U.S. team to do well for the league to grow. Not anymore. With players from over 70 countries and broadcasts in multiple languages, MLS has become truly global.
"We're a league for a new America," Garber said. Millions will support the U.S. team, but millions more will back other nations. All that passion should funnel into MLS interest.
Messi Effect Exceeds Expectations
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has transformed MLS's worldwide profile almost overnight. "If you know football, and almost everybody in the world does, you know Leo Messi, and you know now that he plays in MLS for Inter Miami," Garber noted.
Garber admits the league still faces doubters. Some fans think MLS can't compete with European leagues. But he's not worried. The league has grown to 30 teams with an average value of $731 million according to Forbes.
"Our best days, our best years, in my opinion, are still ahead," Garber said confidently. It's been a slow build over 31 years, not overnight success. But the momentum is real.
For those following MLS closely this season, expect increased competitiveness as the league attracts more global talent. The World Cup break will test squad depth like never before. Teams with strong rosters beyond their star players could emerge as value picks throughout the campaign.
Whether this attention translates into lasting growth remains to be seen. But one thing's certain: MLS is positioned for its most important year yet. The soccer energy won't stop when the World Cup ends—it's just getting started.
