Was it just a little over two months ago that Columbus raised the MLS Cup? And with the shortest off-season ever, we see the season open on February 21st!
Here are the storylines that you need to know heading into the opening match as Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami club battle Real Salt Lake.
Refs and MLS are at a major impasse
Our officials are the backbone of fair play in MLS, bringing years of expertise.
But now, MLS wants to use “replacements.” This will shake up the upcoming MLS season, leaving crucial calls and player safety in inexperienced hands.
Pro Refs for Pro Soccer.
#FairPayisFairPlay pic.twitter.com/4EBSBZzAaA
— PSRA Officials (@PSRAofficials) February 18, 2024
This is ugly. MLS, you start in two days and your contract with the referees is unsigned? Replacements, here we come!
Messi’s buddies
They forgot to mark Suarez because Messi was taking the Freekick 😂pic.twitter.com/SrSWrGaGGP
— Stop That Messi (@stopthatmessiii) February 11, 2024
Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets and now Luis Suarez join their former Barcelona captain in Messi for a chance to lead Inter Miami to the MLS Championship! This club could be poised for greatness. Now, about their kits for this season. Ugh! (See below!)
Atlanta the early fave?
Even with top players like Thiago Almada and Giorgos Giakoumakis, Atlanta is still NOT the favorites to win this year. The Eastern Conference is loaded so Miami (#1) and Columbus (#3) are the favorites to win. In the West LAFC (#2) might not have a big challenge for their chance to erase last season’s final loss.
Player movement
There was an influx of international talent signed by clubs this off season. Leading the pack is Colorado Rapids with their push to sign US Men’s National Team players in Djordje Mihailovic, Sam Vines and Zack Steffen. We’ve already mentioned Miami and Suarez. But LAFC’s signing of 2018 World cup winning goalie Hugo Lloris could be that move we applaud for when the final is played in December.
US Open Cup a no-go!
MLS and US Soccer remain at odds on the format for the 2024 US Open Cup, with sources telling @MichaelBattista the tournament is at risk of cancellation and is “being held hostage” by MLS. Full report here https://t.co/WvOGLtTCcm
— Hudson River Blue (@hudsonriverblue) February 18, 2024
This is just a maddening situation as the FIFA World Cup 2026 here in North America gets moving. Seems like MLS wants the US Open Cup competition to disappear. Their inability to get a deal worked out is affecting EVERY OTHER soccer team in the US NOT playing in MLS.
2024 Kits? Charlie Brown? Columbus? AARGH!
New kits, or uniforms to you newbie soccer fans, are always a discussion point. Some good. Some blah. Some…..well…
The Columbus Charlie Brown kit https://t.co/GRfaSbl3RL
— Gene Howard (@Hartford_Whaler) February 19, 2024
Fans…you decide. Peanuts? Or no?
Yo Columbus Crew, Charlie Brown wants his T Shirt back. pic.twitter.com/upRptEdZVl
— They Think Kits All Over (@TheyThinkKits) February 16, 2024
My opinion on the best kits? Minnesota United! You know they mean business when they release these incredible kits but are still without a manager!
Minnesota United’s new ‘Starry Night’ shirt! 🌌 pic.twitter.com/ANGez0isW5
— Secret Shirt Co (@secretshirtco) February 16, 2024
Miami’s? Lord have mercy. At least they have Messi and company!
From Fanatics, Provided by CBS Sports
There you have it. A few storylines from MLS for the 2024 season! This could be MLS’ greatest year or the year they anger soccer fans! Regarding the Ohio clubs?
Ohio’s Teams
We will share a special 2024 preview for FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew fans. Stay tuned for the 2024 #HELLISREAL updates, too!
Soccer fans, the time is now! The season kicks off in two days! Ready or not!
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