Google trend - MLS

MLS - 10 things to know with detail

• Major League Soccer (MLS) is the top professional soccer league in the United States and Canada, featuring teams from both countries competing for the MLS Cup.
• The league was founded in 1993 as part of the United States' successful bid to host the 1994 FIFA World Cup. The inaugural season took place in 1996 with 10 teams.
• MLS has grown significantly since its inception, expanding to 27 teams as of the 2022 season. The league continues to expand, with plans to have 30 teams within the next few years.
• The league operates on a single-entity structure, meaning that the teams are owned and operated by the league rather than individual owners. This helps to maintain financial stability and competitive balance within the league.
• MLS has a salary cap and roster rules in place to ensure that teams are operating on a level playing field. Designated Players, also known as "DPs," are exceptions to the salary cap and can be signed for higher wages.
• MLS has a unique playoff system to determine the champion, with the top teams from each conference qualifying for the postseason. The winner of the playoffs is awarded the MLS Cup.
• The league has seen an increase in popularity in recent years, with average attendance and television ratings on the rise. MLS has also attracted international stars such as David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and Thierry Henry.
• MLS has made a commitment to developing homegrown talent through its academy system. Many MLS teams have established youth academies to develop and nurture young players for the first team.
• In addition to the regular season and playoffs, MLS teams also compete in the U.S. Open Cup and the CONCACAF Champions League, giving them the opportunity to compete against teams from other leagues and countries.
• MLS has a strong fan culture, with supporters groups creating vibrant atmospheres at matches. The league has also made efforts to engage with fans through social media and community initiatives.