Former LA Galaxy star Zlatan Ibrahimovic recently shared his thoughts on the growth of Major League Soccer (MLS), highlighting what he perceives as hindrances to the league's rapid development.
Ibrahimovic, known for his illustrious career in top European clubs, including Manchester United, Inter Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain, expressed his belief that MLS is progressing at a slower pace due to what he considers as 'too many rules' within the league.
During his two-year stint with the LA Galaxy from 2018 to 2019, Ibrahimovic witnessed the expansion of MLS from 24 to 29 teams, with the upcoming addition of San Diego FC as the 30th team in 2025. Notably, the league made headlines with the signing of Lionel Messi by Inter Miami, marking a significant milestone in MLS history.
While acknowledging the improvement in game quality and individual talent within MLS, Ibrahimovic emphasized the need for a more streamlined approach to foster growth and elevate the league's standard to match that of top European competitions.
He underscored the importance of nurturing young talent alongside recruiting established players, suggesting that sustainable development from grassroots levels is essential for long-term success in MLS.
Unlike major European leagues, MLS operates under a salary cap system, allowing only a limited number of designated players with higher salaries. The league has faced calls to relax these regulations, particularly following Messi's arrival and in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup hosted across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
In response to such demands, MLS recently introduced rule changes aimed at providing clubs with more flexibility in player acquisitions, including adjustments to restrictions on designated players and under-22 signings.
As MLS continues its journey towards growth and competitiveness on the global stage, Ibrahimovic's insights shed light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the league.
