Who controls American soccer? MLS-U.S. Open Cup saga reveals shifting power dynamics

U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson and president Cindy Parlow Cone with the U.S. Open Cup trophy. (Photo by Jason Allen/ISI Photos/Getty Images) Arthur Mattson’s frustration mounted as the U.S. Open Cup slipped from his grasp, and teetered on the brink of collapse. It was early February; and for months, under pressure from MLS, the U.S. … Read more

As Messi-mania resumes, MLS foes maneuver to capitalize on his star power

Lionel Messi’s arrival to MLS has resulted in packed stadiums across the country, including more than 66,000 showing up for Charlotte FC’s regular season finale last year. (Photo by David Jensen/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) The lobbying began long before Lionel Messi touched down in Miami, before his greatness ignited Major League Soccer, before ticket … Read more

Kylian Mbappé, with Real Madrid in pursuit, holds all the power in prolonged transfer saga

PSG’s Kylian Mbappe warms up prior to the French League One soccer match between Lens and Paris Saint-Germain at the Bollaert-Delelis stadium in Lens, northern France, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/ Matthieu Mirville) Ever since Jan. 1, Kylian Mbappé has been free. He is still under contract at Paris Saint-Germain, of course, but with … Read more