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Major League Soccer returned on Thursday with Commissioner Don Garber, league leaders, and players reflecting on the momentum from the 2026 World Cup, discussing Christian Pulisic’s future, and exploring what lies ahead for the league.

NEW YORK – As the 2026 World Cup nears its end, MLS Commissioner Don Garber is now able to see a positive outcome from what was once a major disappointment.

Garber had previously worked alongside former U.S. President Bill Clinton on the committee that bid for the 2022 World Cup, which was ultimately awarded to Qatar.

“That was one of the lowest moments of my professional life when that envelope was opened,” Garber shared during MLS’s “The Next Chapter” event.

However, after watching the 2026 World Cup surpass nearly every expectation, Garber believes that the delay ultimately benefitted American football. It provided MLS additional time to expand with more clubs, improve infrastructure, and attract higher-calibre talent.

“Failure isn’t fatal,” he said. “That setback helped focus our league, energised the [U.S. Soccer] Federation, and reorganised the women’s game – and now, look where we are.”

As MLS emerges from its seven-week World Cup break, Garber wants attention to shift to what the league has built — from rising homegrown players to international stars — and its next chapter.

Garber was joined by executives, coaches, and players to discuss MLS’s future direction. Here are the major takeaways.

Antoine Griezmann has arrived

For those following his career, Antoine Griezmann’s move to MLS was long anticipated. Linked with the league for nearly a decade, the French forward has often expressed his admiration for American culture and sports. While earlier rumours, especially those involving LAFC, never materialised, he appeared at MLS headquarters on Thursday to discuss his decision to finally make the move.

“It’s always been my dream to finish my career in the United States, and I wanted to come here at my physical and mental best,” he said.

Griezmann joins after a season in which he scored seven goals and provided four assists in La Liga, helping Atlético Madrid reach the Copa del Rey final before being upset by Pellegrino Matarazzo’s Real Sociedad. The French star credited Orlando’s management team for convincing him to sign.

“After meeting Mark Wilf [owner] and Ricardo Moreira [sporting director], I fell in love with their vision for the club, and my wife loved the city,” he said. “We felt it was the right time to make the move.”

He also offered his thoughts on the growing quality of MLS and the sport’s future in the U.S. after the 2026 World Cup.

“The competition level and the talent coming into the league are improving every year,” he said. “Many young players are moving from MLS to Europe, while world-class players are coming here to play. This is great for our league. The World Cup is inspiring American kids to love the sport, and hopefully, we can create more magical moments to encourage them to play.”

NYCFC’s pursuit of Pulisic is genuine

Reports earlier this month indicated that New York City FC are seriously considering a move for Christian Pulisic, though AC Milan’s resistance remains a major obstacle. With Pulisic entering the final year of his contract, NYCFC could negotiate a reduced transfer fee or wait until January, when he can sign a pre-contract with another club.

On Thursday, NYCFC confirmed their interest in the U.S. international and did not dismiss the possibility of signing him as a marquee star to launch their Etihad Park era. The new stadium is scheduled to open on 17 July 2027.

“We’re always interested in bringing in top-quality players,” NYCFC CEO Brad Sims said. “A player like Christian Pulisic would be incredible for the U.S., for MLS, and, of course, for New York City.”

Defender Kevin O’Toole, who recently extended his contract, echoed that sentiment.

“He’s an exceptional player, and any club would welcome him,” O’Toole told GOAL. “He’d fit perfectly into our system. We love to play with creative wingers, and he’s got a great work ethic. If it happens, it’d be massive for the club—especially with the stadium coming soon.”

Sims said the club’s ambitions are growing as they look to capitalise on the World Cup’s momentum and their upcoming $780 million stadium.

“There’s no reason why any player interested in MLS wouldn’t also be attracted to New York City, especially with what we’re building here,” Sims said. “The only thing missing is that flagship player.”

He clarified, however, that NYCFC aren’t merely looking for a famous name, but for players entering or in their prime. Sims cited Bénie Traoré’s signing as an example of a player with room to develop while reaffirming their intent to use all three Designated Player slots effectively.

“If you have three DPs, bringing in players past their prime isn’t that exciting—unless they can still perform on the pitch and be valuable off it,” Sims explained.

He admitted, though, that a Pulisic deal remains difficult.

“If you ask any of my 29 counterparts in the league if they’d want Christian Pulisic, I bet all 29 would say yes,” Sims said. “We’d love to have him, but AC Milan don’t want to sell, so it’s currently stalled. We believe Christian wants to play in MLS, wants to come home. When that time comes, we hope NYCFC will be high on his list.”

O’Toole’s message to Matt Freese

Goalkeeper Matt Freese was one of the U.S. team’s standout performers during the World Cup before a costly mistake against Belgium in the round of 16 proved decisive. His NYCFC teammate and close friend Kevin O’Toole expressed full support.

“He had an outstanding tournament,” O’Toole said. “He’s now the winningest goalkeeper in U.S. history with the most shutouts. One moment doesn’t define a player’s legacy. He’ll reflect, learn, and come back stronger. I can guarantee that.”

Freese’s three World Cup victories are the most by any U.S. goalkeeper, and his two clean sheets tie the national record.

End-of-season updates expected

Garber largely celebrated MLS’s progress but hinted that further announcements could come by season’s end. After switching to a summer-to-spring calendar in November, MLS continues to assess its competition structure.

“Our MLS 3.0 initiative covers the new calendar, new stadiums, roster rules, and competition formats,” Garber said. “All of that will be revealed by the end of the season. No other league is so willing to rethink its structure. That’s what makes MLS unique. We must continue building on the World Cup’s success.”

Tim Ream not done with USMNT

At 39, Charlotte FC defender Tim Ream isn’t ready to retire. With a contract option through 2027, he remains open to representing the U.S. Men’s National Team as long as he is active at club level.

“At 39, I know there’s not much time left,” Ream said. “But I’ll keep playing, and as I’ve always said, I won’t retire from the national team until I retire from football altogether. It’s not about thinking I should still be there—it’s just that I won’t hang up my boots until I truly finish.”