MLS 2026 Season Kicks Off with High Stakes and Star Power
The 2026 Major League Soccer season begins this Saturday, promising a thrilling year of competition, with Lionel Messi of Inter Miami and Son Heung-min of LAFC headlining the action. As teams gear up for a pivotal season ahead of the 2026 World Cup, analysts and fans alike are buzzing with predictions on MVP races, playoff contenders, and potential surprises.
MVP Race: Messi vs Son Takes Center Stage
The battle for the Most Valuable Player award is expected to dominate headlines, with Lionel Messi and Son Heung-min as frontrunners. Messi, who won MVP in 2024 despite playing only half the season, aims for a historic third consecutive title. However, Son's impressive performance in the latter half of 2025 positions him as a strong challenger, especially if Messi faces injury concerns. Other contenders include Cristian Espinoza of Nashville, noted for his playmaking skills.
Golden Boot and Newcomer Predictions
In the Golden Boot race, Sam Surridge of Nashville SC is favored after scoring 24 goals last season, with support from new teammate Espinoza. Kévin Denkey of FC Cincinnati and Denis Bouanga of LAFC are also in the mix, with Bouanga's early hat-trick in the Concacaf Champions League signaling a strong start. For Newcomer of the Year, Timo Werner of San Jose Earthquakes is a top pick, aiming to revive his career in MLS, while Stephen Eustáquio of LAFC and Juan Manuel Sanabria of Real Salt Lake are dark horses.
Playoff and Cup Forecasts
Playoff projections vary, but Inter Miami and LAFC are consensus picks to lead their conferences. In the East, teams like FC Cincinnati, Nashville SC, and Chicago Fire are expected to compete fiercely, while the West features Seattle Sounders, Vancouver Whitecaps, and San Diego FC. For the MLS Cup, LAFC is tipped by some for their attacking prowess, but Inter Miami's deep roster, bolstered by a prolific offseason, makes them favorites to repeat as champions. The Supporters' Shield is also likely headed to Inter Miami, given their record-setting potential.
Wooden Spoon and World Cup Impact
At the bottom, Sporting Kansas City faces challenges with a thin roster, making them a candidate for the Wooden Spoon, alongside DC United, which struggled last season. The 2026 World Cup looms large, potentially causing fatigue for key players and disrupting the season's flow. While some predict a minimal impact, others foresee a bustling summer transfer market as teams prepare for post-Messi eras and schedule changes in 2027.
Key Storylines to Watch
Beyond individual awards, the season will be shaped by Inter Miami's reloaded squad, LAFC's dynamic attack, and the Vancouver Whitecaps' stadium issues. As MLS navigates the World Cup hype, the league's ability to capitalize on this moment will be critical for its future growth and visibility.
