MLS Expansion Rumors Heat Up: San Diego and Phoenix in the MixMLS Expansion Rumors Heat Up: San Diego and Phoenix in the Mix Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion rumors have ignited with two cities emerging as potential candidates: San Diego and Phoenix. San Diego: * The San Diego Loyal, a USL Championship club, is reportedly in discussions to bring an MLS team to the city. * The Loyal’s owner, Landon Donovan, a legendary former MLS player, is said to be a driving force behind the bid. * San Diego has a strong soccer history, having hosted the 1994 FIFA World Cup. * The city has a large metropolitan area with a population of over 3.3 million people. Phoenix: * Phoenix Rising FC, another USL Championship club, is also in the running for an MLS franchise. * The Rising’s owner, Brett Johnson, has expressed his desire to bring MLS to the desert. * Phoenix has a growing population and a strong sports fan base, having hosted Super Bowls and NBA Finals. * The city has a warm climate that would be conducive to year-round outdoor soccer. MLS Expansion Process: MLS has a rigorous expansion process that involves a detailed application, financial analysis, and stadium planning. The league currently has 28 teams and is targeting expansion to 30 teams. Potential Timeline: If San Diego or Phoenix is awarded an MLS franchise, the earliest they could join the league would be in 2026 or 2027. Both cities would need to secure a stadium deal, finalize ownership groups, and meet the league’s expansion requirements. Impact on the League: The addition of San Diego or Phoenix to MLS would further strengthen the league’s Western Conference and expand its footprint in key markets. It would also increase the league’s revenue and visibility, making it even more attractive to sponsors and players. Conclusion: With San Diego and Phoenix in the mix, the MLS expansion race is heating up. Both cities offer strong soccer markets and a desire to bring MLS to their communities. The league’s decision is expected to be made in the coming months, and it could have a major impact on the future of soccer in the United States.
