Major League Soccer (MLS) has announced a significant change to its scheduling, aligning its calendar with top leagues worldwide starting in the 2027–28 season. This decision, voted on by all MLS owners, has garnered praise from notable figures in soccer, including U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Speaking shortly after the decision was made public, Pochettino expressed his enthusiasm for the change, calling it a “great step forward” for the league. He highlighted the positive implications this alignment will have for players, coaches, and clubs. “The ability to align with the international calendar will have a huge positive impact for the players, coaches and clubs,” he stated. This adjustment is not only beneficial for senior national teams but also for youth national teams, providing greater access to players during critical international competitions.
Positive Reactions from Key Figures
During a press conference ahead of the USMNT’s friendly match against Paraguay, Pochettino reiterated his support for the MLS calendar shift. “My reaction is: well done,” he remarked. “Congratulations, fantastic, I think great decision. What we can do from my personal view and the [U.S. Soccer] federation is to show our support. It’s a great decision.” He emphasized that the change would enhance the competitive environment in the U.S. by mirroring the structure of European leagues, which are often viewed as benchmarks for success.
Former USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter and soccer icon Clint Dempsey also commended the decision to align the MLS calendar with global standards. Dempsey pointed out that synchronizing the league with international schedules will lead to sharper players when they report for national duty. “Whether you’re in MLS, Europe, or anywhere else, being aligned means players are sharper when they get called into camp and it’s easier for everyone—players, coaches, and fans—to follow the game year-round,” he explained.
The MLS calendar change signifies a pivotal moment for soccer in the United States. It reflects the league’s commitment to growing the sport by adopting practices that are commonplace in major leagues across the globe. As Pochettino noted, this evolution is essential for the development and growth of soccer in the U.S.
As the 2027–28 season approaches, the soccer community eagerly anticipates the impact of this alignment. The move is expected to enhance the overall quality of the league and foster a deeper connection between American soccer and the international stage.
