MLS 2024 Season Predictions: Insights from The Athletic’s Executive Survey
The Athletic’s annual survey of MLS executives has become a cornerstone of preseason analysis, offering a glimpse into the collective mindset of the league’s decision-makers. Over the past four years, this poll has revealed both the unpredictability of MLS and the keen insights of its executives. For instance, last season, none of the 30 polled executives predicted LA Galaxy’s MLS Cup victory, yet they accurately foresaw the international moves of Thiago Almada and Caleb Wiley. This year, 21 executives shared their thoughts on the 2025 season, highlighting the challenges and excitement of predicting outcomes in a league known for its competitiveness and unpredictability.
FC Cincinnati and Inter Miami: The Favorites for 2025
FC Cincinnati has emerged as the favorite to win the MLS Cup, according to the surveyed executives. Their aggressive approach in the transfer market, including the league-record signing of Kévin Denkey and the acquisition of Evander, has made them a formidable force. Evander, in particular, has been hailed as a game-changer, with one executive describing him as "really f—ing good." Inter Miami, on the other hand, is tipped to retain the Supporters’ Shield, despite a hectic schedule that includes the Concacaf Champions Cup and the Club World Cup. Their roster, bolstered by both seasoned veterans and young talent, along with the financial advantages from the Club World Cup, makes them a strong contender.
The Impact of the Internal Transfer Market
The internal transfer market has been a significant talking point this season. FC Cincinnati’s move for Evander, which involved selling Lucho Acosta at his peak value, has been praised as a shrewd business decision. Sporting KC’s acquisition of Dejan Joveljić for $4 million has also garnered attention, with one executive describing it as "outrageous" value. Vancouver’s signing of Jayden Nelson, though under-the-radar, has been commended for its potential long-term benefits. These moves highlight the growing sophistication of MLS clubs in navigating the transfer market to enhance their competitive edge.
Top Players and Coaches: A Mix of Experience and Youth
Evander of FC Cincinnati dominated the votes for the best MLS player, with praise for his current form and potential. Bürki, the former Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper, retained his position as the best goalkeeper, though the votes were more distributed this year. Wilfried Nancy of CF Montreal unanimously won the Best Coach category, reflecting his ability to adapt and succeed despite roster changes. Other notable players include Puig of LA Galaxy, whose influence was evident even in early-season displays, and young talent like Obed Vargas, who is touted for a bright future. The midfield category saw Columbus’s Nagbe at the top, emphasizing his consistent impact on winning teams.
Challenges in Predicting Coach Success
Predicting coaching success in MLS is notoriously difficult, as evidenced by last year’s results, where two top-voted coaches were eventually fired. Wilfried Nancy again received the most votes, underscoring his reputation as one of the league’s top coaches. However, Bruce Arena’s quiet impact at San Jose and the potential of emerging coaches like Schwarz of the Red Bulls add depth to the discussion. The survey reflects a broader perception of a lack of elite coaching in MLS, highlighting the challenging nature of the role.
Sporting Directors and the Art of Roster Building
The Sporting Director of the Year award went to Thorrington of the Philadelphia Union, praised for consistently building competitive rosters. LA Galaxy’s Kuntz, credited with transforming the team into champions, finished a close second. FC Cincinnati’s Albright received recognition but faced questions about the sustainability of their high-spending approach. The survey also highlighted the importance of scouting, with LAFC and NYCFC lauded for their success in identifying top talent. The discussion underscores the critical role of Sporting Directors in shaping their teams’ destinies in an increasingly competitive league.
