Plans and ideas that could impact Toronto FC in MLS

MLS could undergo major changes in 2025, as discussions are underway to reform the league schedule to better align with the European calendar, creating a more globally connected season.

Currently, MLS follows a single-year calendar, with the season running from early in the year through the end of the year. In contrast, the European season stretches from June of one year to May of the next. This alignment with the European calendar could be part of MLS’s plans for the upcoming season.

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Toronto FC could benefit from this change.

This MLS shift also brings discussions on the placement of tournaments like the Canadian Championship and the U.S. Open Cup, with the potential for these tournaments to run from fall to spring. Additionally, the Leagues Cup may be scheduled in the early months of the year, likely in January and February, taking place in warmer locations such as California, Texas, and Florida.

This change could bring more competitive balance and allow for better rest periods for players. There are also rumors of MLS aiming to synchronize its transfer windows with those in Europe, which could mean greater fluidity in player movements between MLS and European clubs. This could provide Toronto FC with opportunities to attract talented players in the European summer and winter windows, typically in June and January.

We will have to wait for the final decisions MLS will make, as they need to ensure that all tournaments between Canadian and American teams are coordinated in a way that doesn’t overload the schedule and strain teams in the next season. For now, as the current MLS season is still underway, we’ll see the final decisions regarding the 2025 calendar when this year’s league competition concludes.