2025 MLS Season Preview: Key Moves and Championship Contenders

With the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season fast approaching, excitement is building as teams prepare for another thrilling campaign. After a surprising 2024 season that saw the LA Galaxy claim their sixth MLS Cup, the landscape of the league has shifted significantly with new signings, managerial changes, and strategic overhauls across the board.

Team Highlights and Key Moves

Inter Miami CF

Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, were the overwhelming favorites in 2024 but stumbled in the playoffs. With a new coach in Javier Mascherano and a revamped squad, the Herons are eyeing redemption. Mascherano’s challenge will be managing multiple competitions, including the MLS Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup, all within a nine-month window.

LA Galaxy

The defending champions have had a busy offseason, losing key players like Gastón Brugman and Dejan Joveljic but bringing in Uruguayan midfielder Lucas Sanabria. Without Riqui Puig for much of the season due to injury, the Galaxy will rely on Marco Reus and Diego Fagundez to fill the creative void.

Atlanta United

Atlanta United’s offseason has been marked by significant changes, including the appointment of new manager Ronny Deila and the club-record signing of Emmanuel Latte Lath. The return of Miguel Almirón, who previously starred for Atlanta before his Premier League stint, brings added firepower to the team’s attack.

New Teams: San Diego FC

As the league’s newest expansion team, San Diego FC is set to make its debut in 2025. With Mexican star Hirving Lozano leading the charge, the team aims to make a strong first impression. Head coach Mikey Varas is optimistic about the team’s adaptability, but expectations remain modest for their inaugural season.

Key Storylines to Watch

• Lionel Messi’s Impact: Can Messi lead Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup amidst a grueling schedule?
• Youth Development: Teams like CF Montreal and FC Dallas continue to focus on developing young talent, but will their strategies pay off?
• Defending Champions: The LA Galaxy’s quest to repeat as champions will be tested without key players from their 2024 triumph.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 MLS season promises to be one of the most competitive yet, with teams across the league making significant moves to challenge for the title. Whether it’s the star power of Inter Miami, the resilience of the LA Galaxy, or the newcomers in San Diego, the race for the MLS Cup will be one to watch.