MLS purists have long fought the notion of promotion and relegation in American soccer. This position has often been endorsed by franchise owners.
However, as we move to 2023, the winds of change seem to be blowing.
In a survey conducted by ESPN, 64% of current MLS players would like to see a promotion-relegation model implemented in the league.
Relegation threat would increase competitiveness
One of the main sticks to beat Major League Soccer has always been the lack of competitiveness.
There have been exceptional teams over the years. In particular, the Atlanta United team that featured Miguel Almiron. However, those teams often break up pretty quickly after achieving success.
Many have long believed that the introduction of relegation would greatly bolster the league’s competitiveness.
With teams near the end being forced to upgrade their own squads, as well as recruit better players, there is clear evidence to suggest that overall improvement will ensue.
The problem is that the owners would be forced to sacrifice themselves for the common good. There aren’t many billionaires who want to do such a thing.
It would also take several years for there to be a tangible difference in the league.
Players would start to get more drawn to the league once it seems more competitive. The more teams that fight for something in a season, the better the league will be.
Support is an issue for MLS teams
There is a thriving lower level of soccer in the United States. However, a lot of structural work would be needed to tie that up with MLS.
Players who believe it is necessary to bring relegation to the league were also polled on the likelihood of this being the case. Tellingly, there were a lot of negative comments.
“I just don’t think it’s feasible,” an anonymous player admitted to ESPN.
“I don’t think a relegated MLS team will get the support they need.
“I think the fan base is not strong enough yet and the property will lose too much money.”
MLS alternatives?
Nobody knows the sport better than the players. They have an idea of the environment in which they play. You have to take their concerns seriously.
However, that doesn’t mean that promotion and relegation in American soccer are impossible. It just needs to be implemented gradually.
One proposed idea would be to greatly expand the league as it currently stands, building a strong base of teams. Then it could slowly incorporate an MLS2-style structure, much like the Premier League’s under-21 league has done.
With more established teams, you would have a greater base of interest in the sport. This would limit fiscal losses from the decline, as well as keep the two products pegged.
For now, it looks like players won’t be getting their wish any time soon.
Photo: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire
