Of course, the MLS is already a huge league in the US and Canada, but it’s not exactly up there with the Premier League, Serie A or La Liga. The MLS still has a lot to learn and it will probably take another couple of decades before it can compete for some of the best players worldwide. However, the MLS is already shaping up to become a competitor, and eventually, we’ll likely see it as one of the top leagues out there, but what are the reasons for this?
MLS Clubs Are Still Spending Big on European Assets
We’ve already seen the likes of David Beckham, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and co take the plunge across the pond. But, MLS clubs are still spending big on European assets and it won’t be long before the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo follow suit. Both of the latter players are now in their 30s and in the next few years, they may want to cash in and earn themselves one more big salary before they hang up their boots forever. The MLS will certainly be on their shortlists of destinations already because they know that’s the league willing to do what it takes to get their signatures.
Bookmakers in the UK are Promoting US Football
Online betting bookies are promoting the US MLS further by offering many markets on the events that take place.
Club Academies Are Thriving
MLS clubs aren’t only spending big on top players around the world; they’re also spending big on their own academies and are offering top scholarships for those students showing potential to be the next big thing. There haven’t been too many American born Premier League A-listers around, other than the likes of Tim Howard, Brad Friedel, and Clint Dempsey. But, with more MLS clubs now spending big on the youngsters, it could be a matter of time before American players make a name for themselves. Eventually, this could lead the American football team itself to compete in some of the biggest competitions in the world, and that could put the MLS on the map even further.
America is an Attractive Destination
New York, California, Miami – all top destinations that football players are attracted to. It means that not only will massive salaries be on offer for top players worldwide but also the attraction of playing in and living in America. Players who have their own families will look at America as a top place to raise a family and that could be another factor that propels the MLS to the top.
Coaches Are Developing Their Skills
Again, MLS clubs aren’t only investing in their youngsters and top players abroad; they’re also investing heavily in their coaching staff to develop their skills further. This could lead clubs into becoming top competitors overseas.
European Games Played in the United States
In recent news, games like Real Madrid vs Barcelona could well take place across the pond on one or two occasions every year. This could boost the popularity of soccer in the United States once more thanks to stars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. There have been reports that Premier League clubs would also be interested in hosting events overseas now and again.
The MLS is growing rapidly over the years, and in another decade or two, it could well be the league to compete with. Of course, there’s some way yet until it can compete with the Premier League, but with all its currently doing, there’s no reason why it can’t be on level terms in the future.