As Major League Soccer’s 30th season kicks off, excitement is in the air as fans eagerly anticipate what the new campaign has in store. The LA Galaxy’s triumph in the 29th MLS Cup sets the stage for an action-packed season, with LAFC hosting Minnesota United in the opening match.
The 2025 season promises to be one of the most memorable yet, with a host of new impact signings breaking transfer fee records, the addition of San Diego FC to the league, and the spotlight shining brightly on Lionel Messi and Inter Miami. The arrival of USMNT stars like Brandon Vázquez and Luca de la Torre adds to the intrigue of what lies ahead.
Predictions are rife as experts weigh in on who will come out on top. Paul Tenorio predicts that Inter Miami will clinch the MLS Cup, while FC Cincinnati is favored to win the Supporters’ Shield. On the other end of the spectrum, Houston Dynamo is tipped to struggle and claim the Wooden Spoon.
Felipe Cardenas echoes the sentiment that Inter Miami will lift the MLS Cup, with FC Cincinnati poised to clinch the Supporters’ Shield. Meanwhile, Nashville SC is predicted to face a challenging season and potentially claim the Wooden Spoon.
Pablo Maurer believes that Inter Miami’s ambition will finally pay off with an MLS Cup win, while FC Cincinnati is expected to excel and secure the Supporters’ Shield. However, San Diego FC may face a tough debut season and could end up as the Wooden Spoon recipient.
Jeff Rueter sees the Seattle Sounders as strong contenders for the MLS Cup, with FC Cincinnati favored to win the Supporters’ Shield. On the flip side, Toronto FC is predicted to struggle and potentially claim the Wooden Spoon.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the summer transfer window for the splashiest signing. Antoine Griezmann to LAFC is a popular prediction, while Gio Reyna’s potential move to an MLS side is also on the radar.
Bold predictions for Lionel Messi include a possible contract extension and a deep run in the playoffs for Inter Miami. The Argentine superstar is expected to have another standout season, albeit with slightly reduced numbers.
Surprise teams to watch out for include the San Jose Earthquakes, who are predicted to bounce back from their Wooden Spoon season and make the playoffs. FC Dallas and FC Cincinnati are also expected to exceed expectations and perform well.
The Club World Cup presents a unique challenge for MLS clubs, with Inter Miami and the Seattle Sounders facing tough competition in their groups. While hopes are high, experts predict that both teams may struggle to advance past the group stage.
As the 2025 MLS season unfolds, fans can expect thrilling matches, unexpected twists, and plenty of excitement on and off the field. With star players, new signings, and high stakes, this season promises to be one for the history books.