MLS soccer fans are nothing if not patient. We've been waiting for MLS glory all winter, biding our time as the top European clubs and leagues duke it out across the pond.
Now, it's America's turn to capture the hearts, minds, and eyes of the soccer public with the launch of the 2025 Major League Soccer season.
This year, the MLS is larger than ever, thanks, in part, to the addition of San Diego FC. This promising team will kick off against the defending 2024 MLS Cup champion: the LA Galaxy. Supporters armed with an Apple TV+ subscription can check out all the action during the 2025 MLS season, which should be one for the ages.
When Does the 2025 MLS Season Start?
Get ready for an MLS season like no other. The fun begins on Saturday, February 22nd, when the beloved Lionel Messi leads Inter Miami CF onto the pitch to face New York City FC.
Watching from the West Coast? No worries: the 1:30 p.m. Eastern start time gives the entire country a chance to see Messi before the rest of the MLS slate begins later that afternoon.
Tuning in to see Messi is a must, but there are plenty of other high-profile matches worth checking out. Set aside time for these essentials:
- LAFC hosting Minnesota United FC
- New York Red Bulls traveling to the Queen City to take on Cincinnati FC
- Seattle Sounders FC battling Charlotte FC in a cross-country clash
Introducing Sunday Night Soccer
The football season may be over, but Sunday night should be as exciting as ever. After all, the defending champion LA Galaxy will play host to the newly minted San Diego FC in the first-ever broadcast of Sunday Night Soccer on Apple TV+.
This will be the league's flagship weekly broadcast, featuring announcers Jake Zivin and Taylor Twellman, not to mention, a Spanish-language simulcast. Sunday Night Soccer will feature three appearances from the LA Galaxy, plus welcome appearances from Messi's Inter Miami CF squad.
How to Catch Every Match with MLS Season Pass
The streaming age has its advantages: tech companies and traditional broadcasters are teaming up to give fans unprecedented access to every game. Apple TV+ subscribers can pay $12.99 a month or $79 a year for the entire slate of MLS matches with MLS Season Pass.
Not ready to take on an Apple TV+ subscription? No worries: the MLS Season Pass can get you in on the action for $14.99 a month or $99 for a year.
The best part? No blackouts. You can enjoy any game — featuring any team — from any location. It's a fantastic service and value proposition. We can only hope that other leagues will follow the MLS Season Pass 2025 model at some point in the future.
Crucial 2025 MLS Storylines to Follow
MLS soccer never fails to deliver the drama, and 2025 will be no exception. Much of this extends from last year's most compelling storylines. For example: last season, Inter Miami dominated the competition en route to their first Supporters' Shield.
Unfortunately, not even the greatness of Messi and the newly added Luis Suarez could prevent playoff heartbreak, as the club fell to Atlanta United in a shocker. Now, fans are wondering: will new manager Javier Mascherano be the missing piece to this championship puzzle? Or will Father Time finally catch up to Messi and Suarez?
Another story worth following: the most successful club in MLS history—the LA Galaxy. It's tough to believe, but the Galaxy could fly under the radar this season. That's what happens when you sell your best player for $4,000,000. The departure of Dejan Joveljić leaves big shoes to fill, especially for the Galaxy to have a shot at claiming a 7th MLS Cup.
The Columbus Crew also said goodbye to elite forward Cucho Hernandez (last year's MVP runner-up) transferring him to Real Betis. In a loaded Eastern Conference, his departure could open the door for a squad like Cincinnati FC — led by talented midfielder Luciano Acosta — to rack up wins in bunches.
New MLS Roster Rules in 2025
To keep more homegrown players within MLS, the league has established a few new rules that give teams more flexibility to build their squads. The most notable? Teams now enjoy unlimited out-of-pocket funds to acquire players within the league.
Moving forward, teams can acquire two or trade two players per season — without needing to use General Allocation Money. Another high-profile rule change promises buyouts for two guaranteed contracts per season. This was previously limited to only one per season.
Exclusive MLS Gear from Cutter & Buck
A new season means a new chance to grab premium-made, officially licensed MLS gear from Cutter & Buck. Elevate your fan style and enjoy versatility beyond game days with these exclusive MLS essentials:
Layer Like a Legend With a MLS Sweater Knit Vest
It's no secret that MLS is inspired by the top European leagues abroad, so take inspiration from this women’s Inter Miami CF Mainsail sweater knit vest, which would look right at home on the streets of London. Supporters of Inter Miami can be found in every climate, making this versatile vest perfect for any season or location.
- Brushed fleece lining for a perfectly cozy feel
- Asymmetrical front zipper is supremely stylish
- Front pockets to hold all the essentials
Enhance Your Soccer Style with a Pique Polo
If you're a proud LA Galaxy fan, you'll want to show off this men’s LA Galaxy tri-blend men's polo. It's ideal for any activity under the sun — and understated enough to function as your go-to casual Friday staple.
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Tri-blend material wicks moisture away
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UPF 35+ UV sun protection to keep the rays at bay
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Stretches just enough for maximum comfort without bunching up
Prepare for the 2025 MLS Season With Championship-Level Apparel
With exclusive MLS apparel from Cutter & Buck, you have the opportunity to showcase your unwavering soccer spirit in versatile and comfortable MLS clothing styles that work just as well at the office and around town as they do at the stadium or watch parties. Whether your favorite MLS team is pushing for a cup or striving to break through to a playoff appearance, we hope this 2025 MLS season is one for the books!
