Major League Soccer (MLS) has been capturing the hearts of football fans in the U.S. and beyond. Once considered a niche sport in America, football (or soccer, as it’s known stateside) has seen an impressive rise in popularity, with MLS playing a major role in this transformation. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, this article is your guide to all things MLS – from its top teams and star players to its exciting future.
What is MLS?
An Overview of the League
Founded in 1993, MLS began as a professional league aimed at popularizing football in the United States. Launching with just ten teams in 1996, the league was part of a broader effort tied to the U.S. hosting the FIFA World Cup in 1994. Over the years, MLS grew gradually, adding new teams, securing lucrative broadcast deals, and raising the league’s overall profile.
Today, MLS boasts 29 teams, including three Canadian teams, making it a burgeoning force in North American sports. With passionate local fanbases and growing international interest, the league has established itself as more than just a domestic football competition. It’s now a key player in the global football landscape.
Growing Popularity of MLS
The combination of compelling matches, high-caliber players, and a vibrant fan culture has contributed to MLS’s recent surge in popularity. According to Statista, MLS attendance reached over 10.2 million in the 2022 season, showcasing its mass appeal. Additionally, partnerships with notable broadcasters like Apple TV have played a vital role in expanding the league’s reach globally.
Search terms like “MLS” and “football” are trending upward, showing how more people are interested in following the league. This growth isn’t a fluke—it’s the result of focused efforts to make MLS a truly competitive and inclusive league for football enthusiasts everywhere.
MLS Teams
Major League Soccer (MLS) is a professional soccer league in North America, representing the highest level of the sport in the United States and Canada. The league has seen significant growth since its founding in 1996 with just 10 teams, and in 2025 it expanded to 30 clubs with the addition of San Diego FC.
The 30 MLS teams are divided into two conferences: the Eastern Conference and the Western Conference, with 15 teams in each. The league has a strong presence across both the United States and Canada, with 27 U.S.-based teams and three Canadian teams (CF Montréal, Toronto FC, and Vancouver Whitecaps FC).
Each team has a designated home stadium, many of which are modern, soccer-specific venues. Here is a list of the MLS teams, organized by their respective conferences:
Eastern Conference
- Atlanta United FC: Nicknamed “The Five Stripes,” Atlanta United is one of the league’s most successful expansion teams, known for its strong fan culture and high attendance figures at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. They won the MLS Cup in just their second season in 2018.
- Charlotte FC: An expansion team that began play in 2022, Charlotte FC, also known as “The Crown,” quickly built a dedicated fan base. The team plays at Bank of America Stadium, sharing the venue with the NFL’s Carolina Panthers, and has set MLS attendance records.
- Chicago Fire FC: One of the league’s charter clubs, the Chicago Fire play their home games at Soldier Field. They have a proud history, including an MLS Cup win in 1998. The team’s name and identity pay homage to the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
- FC Cincinnati: After a successful run in the USL, FC Cincinnati joined MLS in 2019. The team, which plays at TQL Stadium, has made a name for itself with a vibrant and loud home atmosphere, having won the Supporters’ Shield in 2023.
- Columbus Crew: As one of the original 10 MLS clubs, the Columbus Crew has a long history in the league. They are two-time MLS Cup champions and have a new, state-of-the-art home in Lower.com Field.
- D.C. United: Another MLS original, D.C. United is one of the most decorated clubs in league history, with four MLS Cups. The team plays at Audi Field and has a rich history that includes the likes of legendary players like Jaime Moreno and Marco Etcheverry.
- Inter Miami CF: Founded by a group including David Beckham, Inter Miami CF has gained international recognition, particularly after signing superstar Lionel Messi. The team, known as “The Herons,” plays in Fort Lauderdale at Chase Stadium with a new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, in development. They won their first trophy, the Leagues Cup, in 2023.
- CF Montréal: Originally known as the Montreal Impact, this Canadian club joined MLS in 2012. The team has a strong local identity, with its name and branding reflecting its French-speaking heritage. They play their home games at Saputo Stadium.
- Nashville SC: An expansion team that joined the league in 2020, Nashville SC is known for its solid defensive structure and a passionate fan base that has filled Geodis Park, the largest soccer-specific stadium in the United States.
- New England Revolution: The Revolution is another of the league’s founding clubs. They play at Gillette Stadium and have a history of reaching the MLS Cup Final, though they have yet to win the ultimate prize.
- New York City FC: Co-owned by City Football Group (which also owns Manchester City), New York City FC joined MLS in 2015. They won their first MLS Cup in 2021 and currently play their home games at Yankee Stadium.
- New York Red Bulls: Formerly known as the New York/New Jersey MetroStars, the Red Bulls are one of the original MLS teams and have a heated rivalry with NYCFC. The club is owned by Red Bull GmbH and plays at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey.
- Orlando City SC: Joining the league in 2015, Orlando City SC has a dedicated following known as “The Wall” in their home stadium, Inter&Co Stadium. The team’s colors are purple and white, earning them the nickname “The Lions.”
- Philadelphia Union: The Union, which plays at Subaru Park, joined MLS in 2010. They are known for their strong emphasis on player development from their youth academy and have a fierce rivalry with the New York Red Bulls.
- Toronto FC: The first Canadian team in MLS, Toronto FC has a passionate fan base and has been a successful club, winning the MLS Cup in 2017 and reaching the finals on multiple occasions. They play their home games at BMO Field.
Western Conference
- Austin FC: The first major professional sports team in Austin, Texas, Austin FC began play in 2021. The team has a vibrant identity known as “Los Verdes” (The Greens), and plays at Q2 Stadium, which has a reputation for being one of the loudest venues in the league.
- Colorado Rapids: The Rapids are one of the MLS charter clubs. They play their home games at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park and won their first MLS Cup in 2010.
- FC Dallas: Also an original MLS team, FC Dallas plays at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas, and is known for its highly regarded youth academy, which has produced numerous professional players.
- Houston Dynamo FC: The Dynamo, which means “dynamo” in Spanish, began play in 2006 after the San Jose Earthquakes franchise relocated. They have a history of success, winning back-to-back MLS Cups in their first two seasons (2006, 2007). They play at Shell Energy Stadium.
- LA Galaxy: The LA Galaxy are one of the league’s most successful and storied franchises, with a record five MLS Cups. They have been home to global superstars like David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimović, and Landon Donovan, and play at Dignity Health Sports Park.
- Los Angeles FC (LAFC): The other Los Angeles club, LAFC, has quickly become a powerhouse since joining in 2018. They won the Supporters’ Shield and the MLS Cup in 2022, and have a passionate fan base known as the “3252.” They play at BMO Stadium.
- Minnesota United FC: Nicknamed “The Loons,” Minnesota United joined MLS in 2017. They play at Allianz Field in Saint Paul, and their logo features a loon, the state bird of Minnesota.
- Portland Timbers: The Timbers, who joined MLS in 2011, have one of the most iconic fan cultures in the league, including the tradition of the team’s mascot “Timber Joey” slicing a log for every home goal. They play at Providence Park.
- Real Salt Lake: RSL joined MLS in 2005 and won the MLS Cup in 2009. The team, which plays at America First Field, is known for its strong community ties in Utah.
- San Diego FC: San Diego FC is the league’s newest expansion club, set to begin play in 2025. The club is a partnership with the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation and will play at Snapdragon Stadium.
- San Jose Earthquakes: Another of the MLS originals, the Earthquakes have a passionate rivalry with the LA Galaxy known as the “California Clasico.” They play at PayPal Park.
- Seattle Sounders FC: The Sounders have one of the most passionate and dedicated fan bases in North America, consistently leading the league in attendance. They have won multiple MLS Cups and play at Lumen Field.
- Sporting Kansas City: Formerly known as the Kansas City Wiz and Kansas City Wizards, Sporting KC is an original MLS club. They are known for their state-of-the-art facilities and play at Children’s Mercy Park.
- St. Louis City SC: A popular expansion team that joined the league in 2023, St. Louis City SC made a splash in their inaugural season, winning the Western Conference regular season title. They play at Energizer Park.
- Vancouver Whitecaps FC: The Whitecaps are the second Canadian team to join MLS. They play their home games at BC Place in Vancouver and have a storied history dating back to their founding in 1974.
Players in MLS
Please note that MLS rosters are constantly changing due to trades, transfers, and injuries. This list reflects a general overview of the teams at this moment.
Eastern Conference
Atlanta United FC
- Key Players: Miguel Almirón (a notable returning player), Jamal Thiaré, Josh Cohen.
- Overview: A team known for its electric atmosphere, Atlanta is always looking to compete at the top of the Eastern Conference. They’ve recently seen some shifts in their roster, with the return of some key players and additions like Miguel Almirón.
Charlotte FC
- Key Players: Wilfried Zaha, Liel Abada, Pep Biel, Kristijan Kahlina.
- Overview: Charlotte FC has quickly built a strong roster with a mix of international talent and young prospects. Wilfried Zaha is a major star, and the team is focused on continuing to grow its fan base and competitive standing.
Chicago Fire FC
- Key Players: Jonathan Bamba, Hugo Cuypers, Kellyn Acosta, Chris Brady.
- Overview: The Fire have a solid mix of experience and youth. They’ve invested in international talent like Jonathan Bamba and Hugo Cuypers to bolster their attack while relying on experienced players like Kellyn Acosta.
FC Cincinnati
- Key Players: Kevin Denkey, Evander, Miles Robinson, Matt Miazga.
- Overview: Coming off a successful 2023 season, Cincinnati has a strong core of players. Their attack is led by Kevin Denkey and Evander, while their defense is anchored by U.S. internationals Miles Robinson and Matt Miazga.
Columbus Crew
- Key Players: Darlington Nagbe, Diego Rossi, Wessam Abou Ali, Dániel Gazdag.
- Overview: The Crew boasts a formidable roster with a number of Designated Players. They have a powerful attacking group with Rossi, Abou Ali, and Gazdag, complemented by the veteran leadership of Darlington Nagbe.
D.C. United
- Key Players: Christian Benteke, Randall Leal, Aaron Herrera, Matti Peltola.
- Overview: D.C. United is led by a powerful striker in Christian Benteke. The team has also brought in new talent to support its core group as it looks to return to its former glory.
Inter Miami CF
- Key Players: Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, Federico Redondo.
- Overview: Arguably the most star-studded roster in MLS history. The team is built around the core of former Barcelona players, with Lionel Messi at the center. They also feature a strong supporting cast of young players like Benjamin Cremaschi and David Ruiz.
CF Montréal
- Key Players: Giacomo Vrioni, Prince Osei Owusu, Jalen Neal, Joel Waterman.
- Overview: The Canadian club features a blend of international signings and homegrown players. They have a strong forward line with Vrioni and Owusu, and a defensive core with players like Neal and Waterman.
Nashville SC
- Key Players: Hany Mukhtar, Sam Surridge, Walker Zimmerman, Tyler Boyd.
- Overview: Nashville’s identity is built on a strong defense and a potent counter-attacking offense. Led by former MVP Hany Mukhtar, the team also features a strong Designated Player in Sam Surridge and an anchor in U.S. international defender Walker Zimmerman.
New England Revolution
- Key Players: Note: Information for the senior team’s roster is limited, with more detail available for their MLS NEXT Pro team.
- Overview: The Revolution is focused on developing young talent from its academy and has made some recent moves to build for the future.
New York City FC
- Key Players: Thiago Martins, Hannes Wolf, James Sands, Talles Magno.
- Overview: NYCFC is a technically skilled team with a number of talented players. The core of their team includes a strong defense with Thiago Martins and James Sands, and an attack with Hannes Wolf and Talles Magno.
Orlando City SC
- Key Players: Luis Muriel, Pedro Gallese, Duncan McGuire, David Brekalo.
- Overview: “The Lions” have a solid roster with a strong foundation. Their attack is led by the experienced Luis Muriel and young American talent Duncan McGuire, while their defense is commanded by goalkeeper Pedro Gallese.
New York Red Bulls
- Key Players: Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, Emil Forsberg, Wiktor Bogacz, Peter Stroud.
- Overview: The Red Bulls are known for their high-pressing style of play. They have a mix of veteran talent like Choupo-Moting and Forsberg, along with young prospects like Peter Stroud and Julian Hall.
Philadelphia Union
- Key Players: Note: Information for the senior team’s roster is limited at this time.
- Overview: The Union is known for its physical and high-intensity style of play. They have traditionally been a team that develops and relies on homegrown talent.
Toronto FC
- Key Players: Note: Information for the senior team’s roster is limited at this time.
- Overview: Toronto FC has invested heavily in its roster to compete for the MLS Cup. The team has a strong fan base and is always a team to watch in the Eastern Conference.
Western Conference
Austin FC
- Key Players: Brandon Vázquez, Sebastián Driussi, Emiliano Rigoni, Matt Hedges.
- Overview: Austin FC, also known as “Los Verdes,” has a passionate fan base and a potent attack. Their forward line is led by Brandon Vázquez, and their attack is supported by the creativity of Sebastián Driussi and Emiliano Rigoni.
Colorado Rapids
- Key Players: Zack Steffen, Djordje Mihailovic, Rafael Navarro, Andreas Maxsø.
- Overview: The Rapids have been busy in recent years, revamping their roster. They have a strong defensive core with U.S. international Zack Steffen in goal and a talented midfield led by Djordje Mihailovic.
FC Dallas
- Key Players: Petar Musa, Paxton Pomykal, Sebastian Lletget, Maarten Paes.
- Overview: FC Dallas is renowned for its youth academy, but also invests in international talent. The team’s offense is driven by Petar Musa, and they have a strong domestic core with players like Paxton Pomykal and Sebastian Lletget.
Houston Dynamo FC
- Key Players: Ezequiel Ponce, Ondřej Lingr, Amine Bassi, Erik Sviatchenko.
- Overview: The Dynamo have a roster built on a combination of international experience and domestic talent. Their attack is led by key signings like Ezequiel Ponce and Ondřej Lingr, while their defense is anchored by Erik Sviatchenko.
LA Galaxy
- Key Players: Riqui Puig, Gabriel Pec, Diego Fagúndez, Maya Yoshida.
- Overview: The Galaxy have a history of bringing in big-name players. Riqui Puig is the star playmaker in the midfield, and he’s joined by a strong attacking cast, including Gabriel Pec and Diego Fagúndez.
Los Angeles FC
- Key Players: Denis Bouanga, Hugo Lloris, Aaron Long, Maxime Chanot.
- Overview: A perennial contender, LAFC has a star-studded and deep roster. Denis Bouanga is one of the most dangerous attackers in the league, and their defense is led by World Cup-winning goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and veteran center-backs.
Minnesota United FC
- Key Players: Kelvin Yeboah, Sang Bin Jeong, Michael Boxall, Dayne St. Clair.
- Overview: “The Loons” have a balanced roster with a mix of international and domestic players. They rely on the offensive firepower of Designated Player Kelvin Yeboah and a strong backline anchored by veteran defender Michael Boxall.
Portland Timbers
- Key Players: Evander, Felipe Mora, Maxime Crépeau, Juan David Mosquera.
- Overview: The Timbers have a passionate fan base and a team built to compete. Evander is a creative force in the midfield, and they have a proven goalscorer in Felipe Mora.
Real Salt Lake
- Key Players: Chicho Arango, Matt Crooks, Justen Glad, Gavin Beavers.
- Overview: RSL is a team that consistently overachieves. They have a top-tier striker in Chicho Arango, a veteran leader in the midfield with Matt Crooks, and a talented goalkeeper in Gavin Beavers.
San Diego FC
- Key Players: Hirving Lozano, Tani Oluwaseyi, Jack McGlynn, Miles Robinson.
- Overview: As the league’s newest team, San Diego FC has made a massive splash with its inaugural signings. “Chucky” Lozano is the franchise’s first superstar, and the team has also brought in exciting young talent and veteran experience.
San Jose Earthquakes
- Key Players: Hernán López, Jeremy Ebobisse, JT Marcinkowski, Cristian Espinoza.
- Overview: The Earthquakes have a team focused on a high-pressing style of play. They have a core group of players who have been with the club for a while, providing a foundation for their attack.
Seattle Sounders FC
- Key Players: João Paulo, Raúl Ruidíaz, Jordan Morris, Cristian Roldan.
- Overview: The Sounders are a consistent powerhouse in the league. The core of their roster has been together for years, featuring U.S. international stars Jordan Morris and Cristian Roldan, and a potent goalscorer in Raúl Ruidíaz.
Sporting Kansas City
- Key Players: Alan Pulido, Johnny Russell, Erik Thommy, Daniel Sallói.
- Overview: Sporting KC has a talented and creative attack. Alan Pulido and Johnny Russell lead the line, with the midfield pulling the strings.
St. Louis City SC
- Key Players: Eduard Löwen, Roman Bürki, João Klauss, Rasmus Alm.
- Overview: St. Louis City SC had a remarkable inaugural season and is looking to build on that success. They have a strong team built around a solid defensive structure and a dangerous attack led by Löwen and Klauss.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC
- Key Players: Ryan Gauld, Brian White, Andrés Cubas, Yohei Takaoka.
- Overview: The Whitecaps have a creative and talented attack led by Designated Player Ryan Gauld. The team has a strong mix of veterans and new additions to compete in the Western Conference.
The Future of MLS
Major League Soccer is in a phase of unprecedented growth, and its future appears to be one of continued expansion, increasing financial power, and a stronger global presence. The league has come a long way from its early days, and several key factors are shaping its trajectory.
Expansion and Infrastructure
MLS has successfully expanded to 30 teams with the addition of San Diego FC in 2025. League Commissioner Don Garber has suggested that expansion could continue beyond 30 teams, with cities like Indianapolis being strong candidates. This growth is a clear indicator of the league’s health and the increasing demand for professional soccer in North America.
A critical part of this expansion has been the focus on infrastructure. Most MLS teams now play in modern, soccer-specific stadiums that create an intimate and electric atmosphere, which has been a key driver of fan engagement and record-breaking attendance figures. The development of new venues, such as the ones planned for NYCFC and Inter Miami, will continue to enhance the fan experience and generate significant revenue.
Media Rights and Global Exposure
A landmark 10-year, $2.5 billion deal with Apple, which began in 2023, has fundamentally changed the way fans watch MLS. The “MLS Season Pass” streaming service on the Apple TV app provides every single match without local blackouts, a first for a major professional sports league. This centralized media model not only offers convenience for fans but also provides the league with a predictable and massive revenue stream.
The league is also actively working to increase its global reach. The Apple deal, which has a global footprint, is a significant step, and MLS is now signing linear television deals with broadcasters in other countries, such as a recent agreement with SBS in Australia. This strategy aims to expose the league to new audiences and capitalize on the growing international appeal of soccer in North America.
Player Investment and Roster Rules
MLS has consistently evolved its player-spending rules to attract and retain top talent. The Designated Player Rule, originally nicknamed the “Beckham Rule,” allows teams to sign star players whose salaries exceed the salary cap. The recent arrival of Lionel Messi is the most prominent example of this rule’s impact.
The league has also introduced the U-22 Initiative, which provides teams with more flexibility to acquire and develop young, international players. Recent roster rule changes, such as the ability to have two contract buyouts per season and an increase in the amount of money teams can convert from player transfers into General Allocation Money (GAM), give clubs greater financial and roster-building power. This allows teams to be more aggressive in the transfer market and build deeper, more competitive squads.
How to Get Involved with MLS
MLS is more than just a collection of matches; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a casual viewer or an aspiring superfan, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the league.
- Attend Games: There’s nothing like the excitement of live football. Visit your local stadium or plan a trip to catch one of MLS’s legendary derbies, such as El Trafico between LA Galaxy and LAFC.
- Follow Your Team: Subscribing to newsletters, following social media accounts, and engaging with fan communities are great ways to connect more deeply with your team.
- Watch Matches: Don’t miss the live action! Platforms like Apple TV offer comprehensive coverage of MLS games, including highlights and expert analysis.
- Support MLS Merch: Show your team spirit by sporting officially licensed apparel, adding a stylish touch to your wardrobe while supporting the league.
- Stay Updated: From blogs to YouTube channels, there’s no shortage of content that keeps you informed about MLS developments.
Why MLS Matters More Than Ever
MLS has come a long way from its humble beginnings, evolving into a league that inspires fans and fosters talent while showcasing thrilling football. With expansive growth, world-class players, and dedicated fans, the league’s trajectory shows no signs of slowing down.
Whether you’re new to football or a long-time fan, MLS offers a unique experience, blending diverse culture and electrifying competition. Stay tuned, support your team, and witness the future of football unfold in MLS.
Conclusion
Major League Soccer’s evolution into a top-tier competition is a testament to its strategic growth. The league’s foundation is built on expanding to 30 teams with state-of-the-art stadiums, fostering deep local fan bases. Its global profile has been elevated by attracting superstars like Lionel Messi and other world-class talent, a feat made possible by evolving player investment rules. A landmark media deal with Apple has made every game globally accessible, boosting its brand and revenue. This combination of infrastructure, star power, and a forward-thinking business model ensures that MLS will continue to expand its influence and secure its position as a major force in the world of soccer.
