Leagues Cup's place in a Club World Cup world
Where does MLS and Liga MX's annual competition sit in an increasingly saturated landscape?.
MLS
31st July 2025
Why I Joined: After a life in soccer, an opportunity I could never have dreamed of
Former USMNT star Charlie Davies reflects on his excitement at joining The Athletic, the latest step in his remarkable journey.
Why I joined: Passion, curiosity and soccer storytelling with a human touch
The Athletic's new senior soccer writer tells how the evolving nature of the sport and its issues led him toward this new role.
30th July 2025
San Diego FC are setting risky new records in an eye-catching MLS debut
Influenced by Pep Guardiola, Roberto De Zerbi, Luis Enrique and others, no team in the world relies on buildup quite like this newly-formed group.
Thomas Müller finalizing deal with Vancouver Whitecaps after 25 years at Bayern Munich: Reports
German soccer legend Thomas Müller is set to join MLS club Vancouver Whitecaps, Fabrizio Romano reported on Tuesday. The details of the deal have yet to be revealed.
Whitecaps clear to do Thomas Muller deal after 'discovery rights' agreement with Cincinnati
Muller is expected to sign a deal that will not require a designated player (DP) spot in 2025, but would jump to a DP deal in 2026.
⚠️ Muller set for MLS move, deal all but done
According to German outlet Bild, Thomas Müller's transfer to the Vancouver Whitecaps is a done deal.The 35-year-old Bayern Munich legend has reportedly reached a total agreement with the Canadian MLS...
???? Atlanta United complete signing of Hull City midfielder
Atlanta United have confirmed the signing of Hull City midfielder Steven Alzate for a fee of £1.5m plus add-ons.The seven-time capped Colombian international makes the move to the MLS on an X-year de...
29th July 2025
???? NYCFC star leads the way in latest MLS Team of the Matchday
MLS has announced the Team of the Matchday for the 27th round of matches this past weekend.As ever, there were those who stood head and shoulders above the rest of their contemporaries across the leag...
???? The top 5️⃣ goals from the MLS weekend
It is unfortunate that the footballing world continues to frown upon MLS.By comparison, the league will fall well short of the inner sanctum occupied by clubs from Europe and large swaths of South Ame...
In Messi vs. MLS, pettiness gets in the way of sensibility
Everyone involved could have handled the MLS All-Star snafu better, instead of letting things develop as they did.
Who's playing in the 2025 Leagues Cup? Schedule, how to watch, more
The 2025 Leagues Cup is the fifth edition of the tournament between MLS and Liga MX. Here's everything to know.
Thomas Müller, Vancouver Whitecaps in talks over summer signing: Sources
The German great teased that he was headed "across the pond" from Europe, and Canada appears to be his next destination.
28th July 2025
Diego Luna is shooting for the moon
Real Salt Lake's star has seized his moments with the USMNT. So how does he ensure this past summer isn't his international peak?.
????️ MLS refs issue response to Cincinnati's disallowed goal vs Inter Miami
There was plenty of refereeing controversy in the highly anticipated MLS showdown between FC Cincinnati and Inter Miami Saturday evening. Miami felt aggrieved over not being awarded a penalty in the ...
How to watch the 2025 Leagues Cup: Full TV schedule, where to stream matches and more
The 2025 Leagues Cup kicks off this week. Here's how to tune in.
27th July 2025
???? MLS LIVE: Miami locked with Cincinnati; Seattle level in Atlanta
The MLS weekend continues this evening with handful of tasty showdowns. Most notably, Inter Miami will take on league leaders Cincinnati without the services of Lionel Messi after his one-game suspens...
???? Line-ups confirmed: Inter Miami face Cincinnati without Messi
Inter Miami returns to Chase Stadium, where this Saturday they will host FC Cincinnati, the current leader of the Eastern Conference of the MLS, and a rival that just 10 days ago the team led by Javie...
26th July 2025
Lionel Messi's 'bodyguard' Rodrigo De Paul joins Inter Miami: What can MLS expect?
Off the field, the pair share a strong relationship. On it, MLS defenders will find they have someone else to watch out for as well as Messi.
???? MLS LIVE: Seven-goal thriller; LAFC fall to Portland; and more!
MLS is back with a bang on this Friday evening as we truly begin in the business end of the 2025 campaign.With the All-Star game now in the rearview mirror, focus returns to the race for the Supporter...
Rodrigo De Paul joins Inter Miami from Atletico Madrid
De Paul links up with his Argentina international teammate and close friend Lionel Messi; here's how Miami can afford him under MLS rules.
Inter Miami owner hits out at MLS over Messi suspension
Inter Miami have offered pushback against MLS in the wake of the league's ruling involving star duo Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba.The Herons pair, who sat out the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, have been hande...
Inter Miami owner on Messi's suspension: MLS rule is 'draconian'
Jorge Mas voiced his support for Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba while expressing opposition to MLS's decision to ban the star duo.
Inter Miami owner Jorge Más on Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba suspensions: 'It's a bad rule, but it's a rule nonetheless'
Megan Briggs via Getty ImagesInter Miami managing owner Jorge Más said Friday that the club disagrees with the decision by MLS to suspend Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba for one game after they both missed the 2025 MLS All-Star Game.
Messi suspended after skipping MLS All-Star game
Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami team-mate Jordi Alba get one-match bans for skipping Major League Soccer's All-Star game earlier this week.
MLS Suspends Lionel Messi for Missing All-Star Game
Major League Soccer suspended Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba for one game each after they missed Wednesday night’s All-Star Game in Austin, Texas, the league said Friday afternoon.
Messi, Jordi Alba suspended by MLS for skipping All-Star Game
Both stars skipped MLS's All-Star Game despite being fit to play, and they've been punished in accordance with league rules.
Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba suspended 1 game for missing 2025 MLS All-Star Game
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba will not play for Inter Miami Saturday night when they host FC Cincinnati. The two have been suspended — "unavailable," as MLS put it — after they missed the 2025 MLS All-Star Game this week.
Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba avoid suspension for missing 2025 MLS All-Star Game
The two will be available for Saturday's game against FC Cincinnati.
25th July 2025
Five games you must watch in MLS this weekend
MLS is back this weekend after the All-Star festivities and it is certainly back with a bang. The stars of the league have now returned to their clubs after the mini-break, and the business end of th...
MLS teams are losing their home field advantage – and that’s no bad thing
A collection of factors has brought home field advantage down to a level seen in the Premier League, making MLS feel more competitive as a result.
Chicharito apologizes for sexist social media posts following backlash
Chicharito was handed a fine and warning from the Mexican Football Federation for his posts.
24th July 2025
MLS Brings Lionel Messi Cam Back to TikTok
Lionel Messi will star in an exclusive TikTok livestream during Inter Miami’s Aug. 2 Leagues Cup matchup with Necaxa as part of Major League Soccer’s continued audience expansion efforts, MLS announced Thursday.
Minus Messi, MLS All-Stars handle Liga MX through their other top scorers
Sam Surridge, Tai Baribo and Brian White led MLS's All-Stars to victory over their counterparts from Liga MX.
MLS All-Stars dispatch Liga MX All-Stars in 2025 showcase
The MLS stars came out on top in the 2025 MLS All-Star game, dispatching the Liga MX All-Stars in Austin Wednesday evening. The star-studded showcase featured the likes of Sergio Ramos, Chucky Lozan...
The MLS All-Star game entertained plenty, but that may no longer be enough
Lionel Messi’s absence from a traditional showpiece occasion raises questions about who Major League Soccer’s midsummer classic exists to serve.
MLS All-Star Game: Sam Surridge leads MLS to dominant 3-1 win over Liga MX
Major League Soccer is once again on top. The MLS All-Stars picked up a commanding 3-1 win over their Liga MX counterparts on Wednesday night in the MLS All-Star Game at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas.
MLS's calendar, roster changes aren't happening yet, but it's a matter of time
Despite expectation that MLS would take official steps toward significant foundational change, progress on that front is evident.
MLS commissioner Don Garber addresses Messi, Jordi Alba missing All-Star Game
The two Inter Miami stars could face a one-game suspension for failing to turn up at the All-Star Game, per league rules.
MLS commissioner defends ban on ‘political’ signage at games amid Ice crackdown
MLS commissioner Don Garber defended the league’s ban on political signage from fan groups but said that teams are allowed to make political statements in a press conference with reporters before the MLS All-Star game on Wednesday evening.
LAFC eyeing Tottenham's Son Heung-min for summer transfer splash: Sources
LAFC has two open designated player spots and is eyeing the Tottenham and South Korea star for one of them.
Messi set to miss MLS All-Star game, could face potential suspension
Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi, along with fellow Heron Jordi Alba, is reportedly set to miss the MLS All-Star game this evening in Austin.Despite being voted onto the roster, the duo have seeming...
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba face suspension for skipping MLS All-Star game
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba will not appear in the MLS All-Star Game on Wednesday despite being selected for the event, with both Inter Miami players now in line to be suspended from their club’s next match as a result.
Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba to miss 2025 MLS All-Star Game against Liga MX All-Stars
Inter Miami teammates Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba will not play in the MLS All-Star Game, the league announced on Wednesday. A team of MLS All-Stars is set to play a team of All-Stars from Mexico's Liga MX in in Austin, Texas, on Wednesday night.
Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba not showing for MLS All-Star Game
The two Miami stars join James Rodríguez as big-name no-shows for MLS and Liga MX's midsummer showcase.
23rd July 2025
Obed Vargas measures his passes and his present while a brighter future awaits
Seattle's Alaska-born, 19-year-old talent already chose to play for Mexico over the U.S., and bigger decisions are coming.
MLS All-Star Game: Messi still a no-show; James, Jordi Alba out of skills challenge
Some of the biggest names expected to take part in the MLS All-Star Game festivities haven't arrived in Austin.
MLS 2025 All-Star Game: How to watch the MLS All-Stars vs. Liga MX All-Stars tonight
The MLS All-Star Game is this Wednesday night. Here's how to tune in.
MLS 2025 All-Star Game: How to watch the MLS All-Stars vs. Liga MX All-Stars
The MLS All-Star Game is this Wednesday night. Here's how to tune in.
Where to watch 2025 MLS All-Star Game vs. Liga MX: TV, stream, more
The 2025 MLS All-Star Game will see the league's best face off vs. Liga MX's All Stars. Here's how to watch online and on TV.
????♂️Bad news: Messi could face a ban from MLS
The Major League Soccer is preparing for its big All-Star Game with Liga MX, which will be played on July 23rd. This week, training began among the stars of the two leagues, and there was a notable ab...
Digital artwork of Lionel Messi's favorite goal sold for $1.87M to mystery buyer
The elaborate project depicted Messi's most cherished goal from his glittering career.
Chicharito's unfiltered dialogue takes a sexist turn
Chicharito is under fire for comments he posted on social media regarding women and what he feels is their place.
22nd July 2025
Commentary: LAFC fans put aside their rivalry with Galaxy to stand in solidarity against ICE
LAFC's supporters' union made it clear that standing in solidarity against ICE raids in the community is rightfully more important than their rivalry with the Galaxy.
The Transfer DealSheet: Latest on Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Real Madrid and more
Our team of dedicated writers take you inside the transfer market to explain the deals being worked on across Europe and beyond.
???? The top 5️⃣ goals from the MLS weekend
The Major League Soccer All-Star game is creeping up, but the general player pool still put on a show this weekend when it comes to goals. Here are the top five strikes from the weekend.5. Martín Oj...
20th July 2025
Galaxy scores in final minute to force draw with LAFC in tense El Tráfico contest
Maya Yoshida scores in the final minute to help the struggling Galaxy salvage a 3-3 tie with LAFC in a wild El Tráfico rivalry match.
Thiago Almada's Atletico Madrid move sums up the transfer industry in 2025
Former MLS star's switch to La Liga is full of sub-plots that epitomise the globe-spanning complexity of the modern football machine.
???? Portland Timbers unveil largest tifo in MLS history for 50th anniversary
Football and art, what a beautiful combination. Tifos showcase support from club fans all around the world and Major League Soccer side Portland Timbers unveiled something special on Saturday. In ho...
???? Messi involved in four goals to make absolute mockery of NYRB ????
Lionel Messi continues to show just why he's a step above the rest. Inter Miami found themselves down 0-1 in the opening minutes against New York Red Bulls, but then the Argentina World Cup winner had...
???? MLS LIVE: Messi mania; Charlotte and Seattle thrill; El Tráfico up next
Check out every result from Major League Soccer below. 2025-07-20T02:16:59ZGOAL! 74' - Kansas City 1-1 NYCFCWe're bringing your to Children's Mercy Park know where Daniel Salloi has pulled the hosts l...
???? Messi starts: Inter Miami XI confirmed against NY Red Bulls
Inter Miami seeks to return to victory tonight as they visit New York to face the Red Bulls. The team led by Javier Mascherano returned from the Club World Cup with good momentum, achieving three cons...
19th July 2025
Galaxy disciplines fans for rule violations while protesting team response to ICE raids
A 12-year member of the Angel City Brigade was banned indefinitely by the Galaxy for using a press credential to put up an unauthorized banner on July 4.
18th July 2025
USMNT defender George Campbell leaves CF Montreal for West Brom
The 24-year-old centre-back moves to England from Major League Soccer for an undisclosed fee.
Philadelphia Union unveils $100m 'super campus', setting new MLS standard
The Philadelphia Union marked a monumental moment in their club’s history this week with the official opening of the WSFS Bank Sportsplex — a $100m, 170,000-square-foot training and community faci...
Yacht trips, equity, Apple TV income and sunbeds: How clubs convince players to sign for them
It’s not just about a few quid and a nice car anymore – there can be plenty of other options offered to a transfer target.
17th July 2025
This Week in Sports Trivia: July 17, 2025
How closely were you following the sports news this week? Find out and test your knowledge by taking The Athletic's weekly quiz.
2025 MLS Archive Collection kit reviews and rankings: '90s vibes and orcas
10 MLS clubs get new retro-inspired third kits, whether those clubs existed in the time they're referencing or not.
Lionel Messi’s 5-game multi-goal streak snapped in 3-0 loss to Cincinnati
The Argentine's record-breaking streak ended abruptly with Cincinnati handing Miami their fourth loss of the season.
???? Pep Biel writes himself into Charlotte lore with brace vs D.C. United
Charlotte FC are edging closer to a huge three-point haul against visiting D.C. United tonight as the Crown lead 2-1 with ten minutes remaining at Bank of America Stadium. A brace from star man Pep Bi...
⏪ MLS: Evander downs Messi; Rapids deny Seattle; Toronto upset San Diego
Welcome back to another live blog covering all the midweek action across MLS.Once again, much of the talk will be surrounding Lionel Messi and Inter Miami, with a key clash versus FC Cincinnati leadin...
???? Inter Miami line-up confirmed to face FC Cincinnati
The Herons are presented as visitors at TQL Stadium as part of the 24th day of Major League Soccer (MLS). Inter Miami has left behind its participation in the FIFA Club World Cup and is fully focused ...
Sources: LAFC to sign Canada's Mathieu Choinière
The Canadian international was an MLS All-Star in 2023 and 2024 before departing for Switzerland.
???? Stunning new kits unveiled in MLS!
Major League Soccer and its array of dazzling jerseys rarely disappoint. As the final sprint of the regular season approaches, ten American franchises have launched very alluring retro jerseys ("Archi...
16th July 2025
'There are no words' - Lionel Messi and his record-breaking scoring for Inter Miami
Messi has scored twice in each of Miami's last five MLS games, setting a league record and propelling Mascherano's team up the table.
World Cup 2026: What lessons can be learnt from the Club World Cup?
Ticket pricing, adverse weather, pitches, travel problems - there is much to be worked on before next summer's international tournament.
⭐️ OneFootball's MLS Player of the Week
There were several standout players in Major League Soccer this week, but once again, it was Lionel Messi who stole the show.The 38-year-old guided Inter Miami to a 2-1 win over Nashville SC, scoring ...
USMNT striker Patrick Agyemang completes Derby County transfer
Agyemang, whose five international goals have all come in 2025, has signed a four-year contract at Pride Park.
Atletico Madrid complete signing of Thiago Almada from Botafogo
The 24-year-old spent the second half of the 2024-25 season on loan at Ligue 1 club Lyon from Botafogo.
Sources: MLS, players reached new Club World Cup bonus agreement
The league and its Club World Cup participants ultimately reached a deal after a frosty standoff prior to the competition.
15th July 2025
???? The top 5️⃣ goals from the MLS weekend
Major League Soccer produced yet another batch of highlight-reel worthy goals after an action-packed weekend.Let's take a look at some of the best from Matchday 24.5. Anders Dreyer vs Chicago FireIt's...
14th July 2025
St. Louis end losing run with upset comeback win over Portland
Homefield heroics were the order of the day for Western Conference strugglers St. Louis City after securing a 2-1 come-from-behind win against the visiting Portland Timbers. Scorers: Hartel 54', 67';...
13th July 2025
???? Fifth brace in a row: Messi extends his own record
At 38 years old, Lionel Messi is still breaking record after record. This time, he has surpassed someone very special - himself!In Inter Miami's 2-1 win over Nashville, the Argentine scored both goals...
The Cosmos return – with a new home, new league and old ideals
Once the glitziest name in US soccer, the Cosmos are back in Paterson, New Jersey, with a historic stadium, a grassroots ethos and ambitions to build a real club from the ground up.
Messi extends MLS record with double in Miami win
Lionel Messi extends the MLS record for scoring multiple goals in successive games to five with another double as Inter Miami beat Nashville 2-1.
Lionel Messi extends MLS record with fifth straight multi-goal game
Messi scored both of Inter Miami's goals in a 2-1 victory over Nashville SC, extending a record that he set Wednesday.
???? Dreyer cements MVP candidacy with first-half brace vs Chicago
San Diego FC's story board inaugural MLS season continues to write one narrative after the other, as Mikey Varas' troops added a second goal before the break to extend their lead in Chicago. With a ch...
???? Ojeda sets new Orlando record with first-half hit against Montréal
Orlando City look to get back to winning ways tonight in front of home support against visiting CF Montréal, and can thank star midfielder Martín Ojeda for a 1-0 lead going into the half-time interv...
???? Messi strike narrows Golden Boot race as Inter Miami take the lead
It would not be an MLS weekend without a bit of magic from Lionel Messi as Inter Miami jumped to a 1-0 lead over visiting Nashville in South Florida. With the Herons looking to extend their current wi...
MLS: Columbus stun Cincy; Messi shines; Reus puts Galaxy ahead
Welcome back to another MLS Live Blog, this time, covering a jam-packed Saturday night with 28 of 30 clubs in action from coast to coast.Stick with us across the entire evening for all the goals and h...
???? Inter Miami starting XI confirmed against Nashville SC
The Herons don't want to lose ground in the Eastern Conference and face a tough challenge at Chase Stadium in Major League Soccer (MLS). Inter Miami presents itself in a key match for its aspirations ...
12th July 2025
How Lionel Messi's favorite goal became immortalized in art
One of the Argentine superstar's greatest goals has been reimagined as an "immersive gateway that collapses time".
3️⃣ games you must watch in MLS this weekend
MLS is ticking on towards the business end as we head into the summer transfer window.Teams are beginning to make moves for the final stretch, but there are still games to be played this weekend. Let...
11th July 2025
Atlanta United president Garth Lagerwey taking 'indefinite leave of absence' after cancer diagnosis
Atlanta United president and CEO Garth Lagerwey is stepping down from his role after being diagnosed with cancer, the club announced in a statement Thursday.
Atlanta United president Garth Lagerwey takes leave after cancer diagnosis
Lagerwey is one of the most successful and influential sporting executives in MLS history.
10th July 2025
New York Cosmos revived as USL expansion club in New Jersey
The Cosmos brand is being brought back to life in conjunction with a new USL League One club.
Inter Miami in talks to sign Rodrigo De Paul from Atletico Madrid
De Paul's potential arrival would raise questions over Sergio Busquets' long-term future.
Messi scores twice to break MLS scoring record in Miami win
Lionel Messi becomes the first player to score multiple goals in four straight MLS games as he helps Inter Miami beat New England Revolution 2-1.
LAFC savors win over Colorado as it pushes to collect points amid congested schedule
Denis Bouanga, Nathan Ordaz and Javairo Dilrosun scored one goal apiece, helping LAFC defeat the Colorado Rapids on Wednesday night at BMO Stadium.
Lionel Messi becomes first MLS player to score multiple times in 4 straight regular-season games
Inter Miami FC's star has eight goals and five assists across his last four MLS games.