The 2026 Major League Soccer season promises to be one of the most exciting in the league’s history. Fans will witness Lionel Messi and Inter Miami attempt to defend their MLS Cup title while also preparing for Messi’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest in history. Beyond the Argentine superstar, the season is packed with storylines, from emerging U.S. players fighting for World Cup spots to high-profile international signings and MLS’s transition to the European-style calendar.
The season begins this Saturday, highlighted by a nationally televised clash between FC Cincinnati and Atlanta United, kicking off a campaign filled with intrigue and high stakes.
Messi Eyes Another Trophy Haul
Following his heroics in the 2025 MLS Cup final, Lionel Messi remains the focal point of the league. The Inter Miami superstar, who turns 39 this summer, has had some injury concerns during preseason, including the cancellation of a friendly in Puerto Rico. Despite this, Messi is expected to do everything possible to lead Argentina in their World Cup title defense while also spearheading Inter Miami’s quest for silverware.
Messi’s early-season form will be critical not only for Miami but also for his World Cup ambitions. His presence continues to draw global attention, and fans around the world will be closely watching whether the living legend can add another MLS trophy to his illustrious career.
U.S., Canada, and Mexico Players on World Cup Watch
The 2026 MLS season doubles as a proving ground for players from North America aiming to secure spots for the summer World Cup. U.S. internationals like Tim Ream, Matt Turner, Max Arfsten, Cristian Roldan, and Diego Luna are all competing for selection under coach Mauricio Pochettino. Several others remain on the bubble, including Patrick Schulte, Roman Celentano, Miles Robinson, and Walker Zimmerman.
MLS also plays a key role in supplying talent to Canada and Mexico. Canadian starters are likely to include Inter Miami’s Dayne St. Clair or Orlando City’s Maxime Crépeau, while other roster hopefuls include Joel Waterman, Kamal Miller, Mathieu Choiniere, and Jacob Shaffelburg. Mexico may also feature MLS players like German Berterame and Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, depending on their form in the early part of the season.
Big Summer Signings and MLS’s European Calendar Alignment
This season will continue the trend of MLS attracting high-profile international stars. Colombian forward James Rodriguez joined Minnesota United in preparation for the World Cup, following marquee arrivals like Rodrigo De Paul, Son Heung-min, Thomas Muller, and Timo Werner. Players like Kevin De Bruyne, Robert Lewandowski, Antoine Griezmann, Mohamed Salah, and even Cristiano Ronaldo are frequently mentioned as potential future additions.
Additionally, MLS is entering its final season under the old calendar format, with the 2027 campaign set to align with Europe’s summer-to-spring schedule. This change is expected to improve player acquisitions and make MLS more competitive internationally, allowing clubs to compete for elite talent while synchronizing transfer windows with top European leagues.
