MLS offseason shopping list: What Lionel Messi and Inter Miami, LAFC, New York Red Bulls and rest of league must to do to improve

What went right: Very little. The biggest moment of 2024 for the Earthquakes was the announcement that Bruce Arena would be taking over for the start of 2025. MLS' most winningest coach, the 73-year-old has exactly what it takes to return them to the top.

What went wrong: The list is too long, but to put it in simple terms, their roster was not good enough to compete in 2025. Jeremy Ebobisse was given no help in the attack, their midfield could not retain possession and their defense leaked goals.

Biggest offseason need: They need to hand Arena the keys to their roster, and let him work his magic. They have an open DP slot, and multiple U-22 initiative slots, so there is room for their team to grow. In terms of places where they can improve, it's everywhere. They need to bolster their defense, midfield and attack -- with their lone spot for 2025 not up for grabs being goalkeeper.

What went right: They smashed their transfer record early in the campaign, bringing in Hugo Cuypers from Belgium, and he looked the part at times - despite having little to no support in the attack from the Fire. Elsewhere, U.S. youth internationals Chris Brady and Brian Gutierrez earned minutes and were hit with adversity, which is likely good for their development. Under ex-USMNT boss Gregg Berhalter's leadership in 2025, they could take the next step in their careers.

What went wrong: The Fire had little go right. They had a few nice wins, but they finished 28th in the Supporters' Shield standings, scoring just 40 goals while conceding 62. Their attack wasn't good enough, and their defense struggled against possession-based teams who put them under pressure in their own half.

Biggest offseason need: To trust in Berhalter's rebuild, and let him utilize his connections within the league to build a title-contending roster. Replacing Shaqiri will be key, and they'll likely use his DP spot to bring in a top-tier attacker as a result. Another option is buying-down the contract of Gaston Gimenez, so they could potentially bring in two new DPs this winter. Regardless of what they do, though, they ned to give Cuypers some support while shoring up both their midfield and defense. Chicago haven't qualified for the postseason since 2017. This is their biggest offseason to date.

What went right: Carles Gil, Luca Langoni and Esmir Bajraktarevic all showed that they care about the club throughout the season, as the only three standout performers, and those they should build on heading in to 2025. Arguably their best moment of 2024 was acquiring promising left back Peyton Miller, though. He looks to be the part and has really impressive attacking instincts.

What went wrong: Caleb Porter's debut season in the northeast was a complete disaster. The two-time MLS Cup winner let the program down, feuding with players and media members to create an unstable environment. However, the club has shown they have trust and faith in him to guide them into 2025. In addition to their touchline woes, the Revs scored just 37 goals and conceded 74. On both ends of the pitch, they need to look hard in the mirror and ask who is an MLS-caliber player.

Biggest offseason need: The Revs need help at right back, center back, defensive midfield and in the attack. Really, they need a roster overhaul. However, the four players discussed along with goalkeeper Aljaz Ivacic are all likely to be members of the starting XI next year. Now, let's see how the Revs and Porter tackle the transfer market this winter.

What went right: SKC generally had a year to forget, underwhelming across the regular season. But they had a terrific US Open Cup run, where they made it to the final. They lost to LAFC, but their performances across the tournament were the highlight of their season.

What went wrong: Sporting’s midfield and attack really let them down in 2024. They conceded 66 goals and lost an astonishing 19 matches. Overall, though, their roster wasn’t built to compete with MLS’ elite - and as a result, there’s an expectation they’ll be active in the transfer market this offseason.

Biggest offseason need: After parting ways with club legend Johnny Russell and goalkeeper Tim Amelia after the end of the season, Sporting are looking to flip the narrative heading into 2025. Their biggest priority should be the No. 10 position. Speaking at year-end availability, GM Mike Burns alluded to it, saying “Without question, our primary focus is a 10. We're looking for a guy that can break down lines in the final third, ideally can score, can set up goals."

What went right: CITY’s summer signing of German midfielder Marcel Hartel, along with the trade they made for Revs defender Henry Kessler were both very smart moves. Hartel absolutely looks the part, with three goals and seven assists in nine appearances this season, while Kessler will be a role player for years to come.

What went wrong: The club had an abysmal first stretch of the campaign, and it ultimately led to the sacking of Bradley Carnell. Factor in that star striker Joao Klauss scored just five goals in 27 matches and was tied as the team’s top score, and the story is essentially told.

Biggest offseason need: They could look to the forward position this winter to provide competition for Klauss, while shoring up their defense as well. Overall, they lacked depth in 2024, and just didn’t score goals. Perhaps there is a ball-winning six in their eyes as well, but more than anything, they need competition up top and depth in their defense.

What went right: Bringing in B.J. Callaghan as their new manager. He showed immense promise with the USMNT as their assistant, and after taking over in the summer, had Nashville playing in a visible system - which was a healthy change of pace.

What went wrong: At one point, Nashville went winless in 10 matches across all competitions in the middle of the summer. Star forward Hany Mukhtar, meanwhile, had his worst season to date for the club, with eight goals and 10 assists in 32 appearances.

Biggest offseason need: Nashville needs to figure out how to hold on to Canada star Jacob Shaffelburg, while building their attack around him, Mukhtar and Sam Surridge. Bringing in a top-tier winger opposite of the Canadian could really bolster their ranks, but where they desperately need to improve is their defense. Bringing in competition in the fullback and central defense spots will be key to elevating their squad in 2025.

What went right: Los Verde had a really tough season. There weren't a lot of positives, however, they made two really great signings in the summer that have brought some optimism heading into the new year. Both Mikkel Desler and Oleksandr Svatok look like MLS role players, and individuals who can make an impact under new leadership.

What went wrong: Gyasi Zardes and Diego Rubio, their two primary strikers, scored a combined seven goals in 2024 while the club scored just 39 total goals across the season, the third-least in the league.

Biggest offseason need: They desperately need a striker. Neither Rubio nor Zardes are starters at the MLS level anymore, and their severe lack of goals in 2024 was what ultimately haunted them. It's priority No. 1 for them this offseason, and they have both U22 and DP flexibility to pull off a game-changing signing. After appointing Nico Estevez as their new manager following the firing of Josh Wolff, the ex-FC Dallas man and the club's hierarchy will go into this offseason looking to make a splash.

What went right: Alan Velasco returned from injury, and they spent a club-record fee of over $10M to bring in forward Petar Musa, who score 16 goals in his debut season in MLS. Goalkeper Maarten Paes was a standout performer as well, with the Indonesia international winning MLS Save of the Year, while being a leader between the posts.

What went wrong: In 22 games across the regular season, U.S. international Jesus Ferreira scored just five goals, his worst campaign since 2020. As a result, FCD relied heavily upon Musa, but he could only shoulder so much of the weight as their attack never lifted them over the line.

Biggest offseason need: After appointing Eric Quill as their new manager in November, FCD will embrace a new identity heading into the new campaign. As a whole, their roster, when healthy, has a decent skeleton. However, there are a few areas in which there could be visible improvements like the fullback position, and in the attacking midfield. The club has no DP spots as things stand, so they won't be making a large splash in the market. But bringing in another winger to compete with Paul Arriola and Bernard Kamungo could do wonders for their attack.

What went right: Everything Christian Benteke touched in the final-third of the pitch. The ex-Liverpool striker won the 2024 MLS Golden Boot, beating out all of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Denis Bouanga to the award. He was so impressive when he wasn't injured - and if he had just any consistent support at all, they likely would have been a playoff caliber team.

What went wrong: Pretty much everything outside of Benteke. One of the most unimpressive rosters in MLS let them down week after week, while the Belgian continued to score, score and score. Their defense leaked goals, conceding an astonishing 70, while outside of their Belgian forward, nobody came close to scoring double-digits.

Biggest offseason need: Build around Benteke, and give him the support he deserves. In general, D.C. will need to have a very large roster overhaul this winter into 2025. We'll see a lot of new faces on all ends of the pitch, but most importantly, they have to capitalize on the momentum their Belgian forward has. There is promise with youngster Ted Ku-Dipietro, but beyond that, their attack is bleak. Elsewhere, rebuilding their goalkeeping corps and solidifying their midfield will be important, too.

What went right: Atlanta earned north of $50M in transfer fees off of Thiago Almada, Caleb Wiley and Giorgis Giakoumakis - which is damn impressive. On top of that, they made it to the Conference semifinals in the playoffs, after knocking off Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in the opening round in stunning fashion. Their regular season performances may not have been exciting, but their front office business and brilliant postseason run are two very impressive highlights.

What went wrong: In the end, they just never replaced their three superstars after transferring them away. They stuck with the roster they had, and fought valiantly, but a lack of elite talent overtook them and they just couldn't compete.

Biggest offseason need: There's so much that Atlanta can do this offseason, but identifying their next head coach will be the first priority. Once that happens, though, they will likely be the most active MLS team this offseason in the transfer market. The Five Stripes could hypothetically add two DPs, two U22 initiative players - and of course need a new general manager alongside their head coach. In terms of positions, though, those coveted DP slots will likely be used at the striker and attacking midfielder positions.

What went right: Federico Bernardeschi's workrate and willingness to be the face of the club's failure. It's not too often that a club's star opts to step up to be the one to speak when things go bad, or adapt to changes without complaint. In 2024, the Italian did just that for TFC. He played as an inverted wingback under John Herdman, and he was brilliant in the role. He then moved higher up the pitch, and remained their hardest-working player. In a year in whick not a ton went right for the Western Conference side, he was a fresh breath of air for the club.

What went wrong: Lorenzo Insigne had a poor season, injuries aside. The star playmaker for the club only recorded 11 goal contributions in 2024, while being the second-highest paid player in the league, too. They needed more out of him, and it never came. Failure on the touchline was a problem, too. Over the summer, Canada Soccer's drone scandal took the attention of Herdman, and he lost track of the club amid the investigation. His November departure is likely a blessing in disguise.

Biggest offseason need: It's hard to see where their roster could use improvement, because they don't have a manager at the moment, and Herdman constructed his team to play a specific formation in a specific way. There is speculation that Insigne could depart this winter, which would open a lot of salary space plus a coveted DP spot. However, before they even look to the transfer market, they need to identify who their next coach will be.

What went right: Leaning toward youth, and finding success at the same time. Nathan Saliba in the midfield, accompanied by mid-season acquisition Caden Clark - as well as wingback Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty and central defender George Campbell - marked a new route toward competing in 2024.

What went wrong: Montreal have never been big-spenders, and as a result, it's often led to them being a club who sits around the edge of qualifying for the playoffs. Until they make an attempt to start spending on high-profile players to elevate their team, they'll likely ever reach the level needed to compete with MLS' elite. They finished 17th in the regular season standings, and earned a Wildcard playoff berth, but nothing came off it. In general, they just didn't stand out in any department, and if their ownership is OK with that, they'll never take the next step.

Biggest offseason need: Attacking midfield and striker. Despite Bryce Dukle having success, and Clark emerging in the team in 2024, CF MTL still needs to pursue an experienced No. 10 to help guide their attack. Above him, in the CF position, they'll need to find a new striker to lead their line. They declined the contract option on league veteran Josef Martinez, so it appears they're embracing a small rebuild. Now, it's a waiting game to see how they go about pursuing it.

What went right: The Union finally put pen to paper on the signature of highly-rated teenager Cavan Sullivan, handing him his first senior contract. On top of that, his older brother Quinn, had a career season and emerged as one of the brightest midfield talents in MLS, with five goals and 11 assists. After their season, they also secured starting fullback Olivier Mbaizo to a contract extension, handing the Cameroonian a new deal.

What went wrong: Ultimately, Philadelphia never replaced Julian Carranza after his midseason transfer to Feyenoord, and as a result, their attack fell apart. They lacked cohesion and leadership in the final-third, and leaned heavily on individual performances. Defensively, Philly conceded 55 goals, which was a big reason why they missed out on postseason contention.

Biggest offseason need: Their highest priority will, and should, be hiring their next coach. The surprise firing of Jim Curtin leaves a massive hole in the team, and now, they need to figure out what their identity is heading into 2025. In terms of players, they should be in the market for an attacker to help link up Daniel Gazdag and Tai Baribo. Whether that's a wide player, or a center-forward, they need another starting-caliber player to bring everything together next season - preferably, an experienced member who can help inspire and lead their young budding core.

What went right: Charlotte's defense, and in particular, young French defender Adilson Malanda and U.S. international Tim Ream, whom they acquired from English Premier League side Fulham midway through the season. Dean Smith created one of the most impressive defense's MLS saw in 2024, conceding just 37 total goals across the regular season. Only the Sounders conceded less, with 35.

What went wrong: Ultimately, Charlotte's attack couldn't find the goals to power them higher up the table in the regular season, or in the playoffs. In the postseason against Orlando City, they held them to a 0-0 draw at home, and followed it with a 1-1 draw on the road, before falling in their best-of-3 series. It was a good summary of how their campaign went, with their defense being nearly perfect, but their attacking just leaving way too much left on the plate.

Biggest offseason need: Left wing and attacking midfield. The club seems to have all of the belief in the world in Patrick Agyemang, so they need to build around him and right winger Liel Abada. If they can bring in an elite creative No. 10, and a starting-caliber left winger, their attack can lead them further than where they went in 2024. Their excellent defense carried them in 224, so finding squad balance in 2025 will be key to taking the next step.

What went right: The Red Bulls' start to 2024 was incredible. They went unbeaten across eight of their first nine matches of the season, even beating Supporters' Shield winners Inter Miami 4-0. However, their inability to secure three points in tightly-contested matches hurt them over the final stretch of the season. In the playoffs, though, they were beyond excellent. Making their first MLS Cup final since 2008, they exceeded all expectations, and reached new heights with a healthy XI powered by internal belief.

What went wrong: The Red Bulls drew 14 matches in 2024 - more than any other MLS team. Ultimately, their attack could never lift them to the next tier of MLS' elite across the regular season. Factor in that they had no true playmaking replacement for Emil Forsberg's three-month absence, and their depth proved to be costly, too.

Biggest offseason need: Striker. The Red Bulls desperately need help in the final-third, and specifically, in front of net. Belgian forward Dante Vanzeir let them down in 2024, bagging just four goals during the regular season. Reports suggest they're chasing former Bayern Munich star Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, but even then, they should look at bringing in an additional option for rotation sake.

What went right: The Timbers made the Wildcard round of the postseason after many thought they wouldn't clinch a spot based on the latter half of their campaign. The signing of Jonathan Rodriguez proved to be brilliant, while Felipe Mora had a top season in the final-third as well. More than anything, though, it was Evander who elevated them in 2024. The Brazilian attacking midfielder recorded 34 goal-contributions across the regular season.

What went wrong: Their defense leaked goals. In total, they conceded 56 goals in 34 matches, and at times, their back line was what cost them matches, considering their brilliant attack bagged 65 goals on the year - nearly averaging two per-game. Phil Neville seems to have a grasp on what to do in the Western Conference, but their defense was what ultimately let them down in 2024.

Biggest offseason need: Figure out what the hell to do with Evander, while replacing nearly their entire defense. The thing about the Timbers, was they were ridiculously fun in 2024. They scored a ton of goals, but conceded just as many, too - it was chaotic, but in an entertaining way. For their Brazilian star - who was nominated for 2024 ML MVP - there are a lot of decisions to be made. He called out management and front office members after their postseason exit and a transfer away seems imminent. But if they can reconcile their differences, holding onto him will be so valuable. Defensively, though, they need to bring in at least three new starters.

What went right: Over the first three-quarters of the season, the Whitecaps played impressive and cohesive soccer, competing with some of the best in the West. Brian White has consistently scored goal for the club, while Ryan Gauld excelled in the midfield, and Fafa Picault had his best season as a professional since 2021 in front of net.

What went wrong: The Whitecaps really struggled at home in 2024, earning just six wins during the regular season at BC Place. They were tied with Atlanta United for the worst home record of any playoff team in 2024, and that definitely factored into their postseason exit in the first round. If they were to win a few more matches, they wouldn't have been put in a Wildcard playoff position, that inevitably led to them facing No. 1 seed LAFC in the opening round.

Biggest offseason need: First, they need to hire a head coach. With Vanni Sartini out, they are going to need to ensure they get this next hire right if they are to take a further step come 2025. In terms of player personnel, the Whitecaps desperately need help in wide areas, and perhaps up front to allow White some time to rest, while also giving him healthy competition.

What went right: The Loons found their groove under first-year head coach Eric Ramsay in 2024, making their way to the Western Conference finals. Canada international Tani Oluwaseyi had a breakout season, while winger Bongokuhle Hlongwane led the team in scoring, midfielder Robin Lod returned from injury to have an outstanding campaign and mid-summer signing Kelvin Yeboah turned out to be a brilliant addition to their attacking core.

What went wrong: Their defense, and a massive amount of injuries. The Loons switched to a back-three system under Ramsay in 2024, and as a result, they went through a brief period of trial and error due to player availability and finding the best partnership in the back. Eventually, they figured it out, but they fell victim to a terrible spell of form in the summer. At one point, the Loons had to call up a fifth-string goalkeeper from their MLS NEXT Pro side due to player availability, which is a good summary of how effective their roster depth was in 2024.

Biggest offseason need: To buyout Teemu Pukki's Designated Player contract and use it on a starting-caliber winger, a defensive midfielder or an elite central defenders. Finland's all-time leading scorer, Pukki became third-string in 2024 behind Yeboah and Oluwaseyi, and barely touched the pitch over the final stretch of the season. If the Loons can find a way to buyout his contract, they can better utilize his roster designation elsewhere. Regardless of what happens with him, though, they should still look to bring in three players in the roles described above this winter.

What went right: The performances of goalkeeper Matt Freese, midfielder James Sands and striker Alonso Martinez. Freese was one of MLS' best goalkeepers in 2024, and might well have worked his way into USMNT camp in 2025, while Sands had a resurgence of a campaign in the center of the park. Martinez, meanwhile, had a breakout year, scoring 17 goals in the regular season. The Costa Rica international was far-ahead their most productive attacker, and if they can build around him for 2025, there is a lot to look forward to for the club.

What went wrong: They lacked depth and attacking prowess in the final-third. Mounsef Bakrar, Hannes Wolf and Jovan Mijatovic underwhelmed all season, with the latter failing to find the back of the net or a record an assist. Standout performers Santiago Rodriguez and Martinez did the best they could, but without help from wide areas or off the bench, NYCFC ultimately fell short.

Biggest offseason need: A head coach, followed by attacking reinforcements. With Nick Cushing's departure from the Pigeons, the Eastern Conference side must now get their next hire right if they are to take a step forward in 2025. Once that happens, they can tackle the transfer market, where they should be looking to bring in a starting-caliber winger, and potentially, another striker.

What went right: The Dynamo exceeded expectations in 2024, and even had a decent postseason showing. They took Conference finalists Seattle to the wire in both of their Round One playoff defeats, but all-in-all, Ben Olsen's squad surpassed what many thought was achievable by them. The signing of Ezequiel Ponce looks to be a promising one, while U22 initiative winger Ibrahim Aliyu broke out, with 2025 seeming like a real season for him to make his presence known.

What went wrong: Hector Herrera's antics ultimately doomed them in the playoffs. His inconsistent performances throughout the season led to him getting sent off in game two against Seattle in the postseason after he spat at an official. However, pinning performances on one individual has never been a fair measure. Throughout 2024, the Dynamo defense left much to be desired. They conceded late goals frequently, and struggled to retain leads, but some of that also trickles back to their midfield. As a result, heading in to 2025, structure will be crucial to their success.

Biggest offseason need: The Dynamo need to bolster their goalkeeping ranks immediately, bringing in an elite shotstopper. Clearly, 38-year-old Steve Clark is not at the level they need heading in to 2025, so that's an immediate area where they can improve. Elsewhere, attacking depth could really help the club - in both wide and central areas. However, their most pressing need will be replacing Herrera in the midfield. The Mexican will not be returning in 2025, and as a result, they will need to spend on a top-tier ball-winning midfielder to fill his shoes.

What went right: Chris Armas' hire in 2024 put them on track for an expected breakout 2025. Moise Bombito was a standout performer through the first half of the year into Copa America, and earned a move abroad as a result. The free agent signing of Reggie Cannon bolstered their backline, while U.S. internationals Zack Steffen, Djordje Mihailovic and Cole Bassett proved to be good members of the core under Armas.

What went wrong: After Bombito departed, they failed to replace him, and their defense really struggled as a result. In addition to that, their attack was never scoring goals on a consistent basis. Rafael Navarro had his best season to date, but there was nobody to push him in the final-third each week. Factor in that both Kevin Cabral and Jonathan Lewis provided inconsistency in the attack, and, well, it was inconsistency across the board.

Biggest offseason need: They need depth in the attack. The roster pieces assembled are good, but they're not great. Every week, the Rapids attack should be feeling as though their job isn't secure, and at the moment, there's nobody better than their XI available off the bench. Defensively, they need to bring in a starting-caliber central defender to replace Bombito, and ideally, a younger centerback at that. If they can invest in somebody to lead their backline, it will be to the benefit of their entire roster.

What went right: Everything Brian Schmetzer touched. Jokes aside, the Sounders manager was brilliant in 2024. They had the league's best defense, and Jackson Ragen was a finalist for defensive player of the year. He got a career year out of U.S. international Jordan Morris, while Slovakian midfielder Albert Rusnak had his best season to date as a professional. If they can add depth and competition to their Xi in 2025, there's no stopping them from storming the West once again.

What went wrong: Losing Pedro De La Vega to injury early in the season, and just not having enough depth. Schmetzer can only do so much with what he's given, and by all standards he exceeded them in 2024, but there were visible areas where the front office could have helped him. Their lack of effort in the summer transfer window, not bolstering their attack, ultimately proved costly.

Biggest offseason need: The Sounders need forward help, desperately. Morris can only do so much, and with little to no service from wide areas, he made do in 2024. The high-profile signing of De La Vega at the start of the season had expectations high for the club, but he was nearly sidelined for the entire season, putting a damper on his debut campaign. Of course, the emergence of Georgi Minoungou helped, but the club absolutely needs to invest in their attack this offseason. They need a new striker to compete with Morris, an elite starting-caliber winger to compete with the latter two, and an attacking midfielder to push Rusnak in 2025.

What went right: Essentially, the start of their season through July. They were absolutely brilliant, playing some of the best attacking soccer in MLS and competing at the top of the Supporters' Shield standings alongside the likes of Miami, Columbus and both teams out of Los Angeles. Chicho Arango was MLS' best scorer heading into the summer, U.S. youth international Diego Luna was finding brilliant form and Pablo Mastroeni had his entire team playing under a belief that they can succeed.

What went wrong: July through the end of the year. Someway, somehow, RSL collapsed after being one of MLS' hottest teams throughout the first half of the year. Star forward Arango was suspended for four matches starting in July, and thereafter, their attack fell apart and their defense started leaking goals. Something was turned off and never flicked back on. Their Round One playoff exit ended up being predictable.

Biggest offseason need: They need to figure out what happened. In August, they brought in reinforcements in the shape of Diogo Goncalves and Dominik Marczuk, but neither took off immediately, meaning this offseason should be dedicated into figuring out how they both factor into the XI. In terms of immediate positional upgrades, they could use depth and competition at both fullback spots, as well as in the central midfield.

What went right: They were one of MLS' biggest surprises in 2024, making it all the way to the Eastern Conference finals in the postseason. That, and they ended the regular season fourth in the Eastern Conference, out-performing many teams who were expected to end ahead of them in the league standings. Ahead of the 2024 season, they re-signed Oscar Pareja to a multi-year deal, and it has absolutely paid off. He's worked wonders with the squad he has been given.

What went wrong: The performances of Luis Muriel, Duncan McGuire and Ramiro Enrique. Muriel, who was brought in to the team in a high-profile move from Serie A side Atalanta, only scored five goals across the regular season, while Enrique had nine and McGuire scored 10. Nobody secured the starting spot on a consistent basis, and it quite literally came back to haunt them in the postseason, after all three of them were blanked in the Eastern Conference final against the New York Red Bulls. Throughout the entire season, they lacked threat in the final-third and escaped with narrow victories on the heels of brilliant defending and quite solid performances in the midfield. They needed more out of their high-profile attack, and it just never came.

Biggest offseason need: A creator to alleviate the pressure on Facundo Torres' shoulders. Surely, McGuire will be the subject of transfer rumors again this offseason, but that should not change anything with the team heading in to 2025. They ultimately need another winger or an attacking midfielder to come in and provide service into the final-third. That, and they need to expect more from Muriel - signed as a Designated Player, the Colombian actively underperformed in 2024. If he is to succeed in MLS, he needs to adapt - otherwise the Lions could look to cut their losses one year in.

What went right: The loan signing of Luca Orellano, who ended up being one of the club's best performers in 2024. That, and the sheer consistency that Pat Noonan brought on the touchline on a weekly basis. They underperformed in Cup competitions and the postseason, but with the cards they were dealt, they still managed to come out close to the top - that has to count for something in the grand scheme of things.

What went wrong: Season-ending injuries to defenders Matt Miazga and Nick Hagglund, and finding no way to replicate their performances with depth, ultimately leaving Milkes Robinson stranded. Miazga, MLS' 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, underwent PCL surgery in June while Hagglund underwent ankle ligament reconstructive surgery in June. Two starting defenders on the roster, they both went down at nearly the same time, putting the club in a rough situation to get through the campaign. Ultimately, it was too much to overcome.

Biggest offseason need: The club already secured the purchase option on Orellano after a brilliant 2024 debut season on loan at the MLS side, and that's one of the biggest wins they could have had. Factor in they've spent an MLS-record fee of $16.2M for Togo international Kevin Denkey, and they are well on their way back to the top of the East. However, the biggest move they could make in the market this offseason is keeping 2023 MLS MVP Lucho Acosta - who has stated his desire to leave the club after an up-and-down 2024 campaign. If they can find a way to make him stay, they are immediately a better team. If he departs, though, it will leave massive shoes to fill.

What went right: They made it to the Leagues Cup final and they won the 2024 US Open Cup, while claiming the Western Conference title in the regular season. That itself is damn impressive. However, with the way things ended in the playoffs? Not a success.

What went wrong: Honestly? The Olivier Giroud experiment. Zero goals in the regular season, two goals across 19 appearances in all competitions and just one assist. The club made a heavy investment in him, and it didn't pay off. Factor in the late-season re-signing of Carlos Vela too, and all-in-all, it was just poor. Following their Leagues Cup final loss to the Crew, their league form took a hit - and all throughout the playoffs, they lacked confidence, not looking like a No. 1 seed.

Biggest offseason need: If they lose Mateusz Bogusz - as expected - they will need to re-evaluate their attack. If that means bringing in a new right wing so be it. There's no room for error in competition with a squad like LAFC - who are high-spenders, with high expectations. The biggest potential move to watch is Antoine Griezmann. The former France international has stated his intent to come to MLS, and with Giroud and Hugo Lloris already on the squad, it would make a lot of sense to see them pursue him. In terms of general roster improvement, they will need to bring in a starting-caliber midfielder to replace Eduard Atuesta, who returned to Corinthians after a season-long loan to the Black and Gold.

What went right: Themost storied franchise in MLS is officially back now. MLS Cup winners in 2024, the Galaxy propelled themselves to the top on the back of some impressive transfer business, specifically the signings of Gabriel Pec and Joseph Paintsil. They went undefeated at home in 2024, while coach Greg Vanney found the perfect balance of offense and defense this season.

What went wrong: The Galaxy's only real negative in 2024 was losing Riqui Puig to an ACL tear during their playoff run. A case could be made for them fumbling the No. 1 overall seed on Decision Day with a loss to the Houston Dynamo in their regular season finale, but ultimately, it worked out for them.

Biggest offseason need: Somehow, the Galaxy need to find a way to hold onto Pec, but at the same time, if an offer rolls in past the $20M mark - it would be hard to see them turn it down. In that case, they should start preparing for a hypothetical season without him, working scouting their next potential right winger. Additionally, the club needs to decide if they need to bring in an additional midfielder during Puig's absence throughout at least the first half of the season.

What went right: The Crew were MLS' second-best team all season behind Miami. They won the Leagues Cup, made it to the final of the Champions Cup and took the regular season title race down to the wire in October. All-in-all, it was a successful campaign, as they navigated continental and domestic competitions to a near perfection.

What went wrong: Simply put, they didn't have the depth to get it through the season. After playing in 50 matches in 37 weeks, fatigue got the best of them in the first round of the postseason. The timing was, of course, brutal - but in professional sports, this sort of thing happens sometimes

Biggest offseason need: The Crew could obviously use depth across the board, specifically in central defense, but all-in-all, they already have MLS' most well-rounded squad. This offseason, retaining Cucho Hernandez would be better transfer business than any potential move they could make. The Colombia international is the recipient of interest from Mexico and Europe, and deservedly so, but if they can hold onto him somehow -- that's the best move they could make this window.

What went right: Virtually everything in the regular season. They won the Supporters' Shield, set the points record and competed at a high level even when Lionel Messi was injured. You cannot ask for much more.

What went wrong: The playoffs. They had a few injuries, but it's no excuse. They struggled with the weight of expectations, and their backline really let them down in moments against Atlanta United. In 2025, they'll have more than the postseason to compete in, with the Champions Cup, Club World Cup, Open Cup and Leagues Cup all factoring in.

Biggest offseason need: Defenders and midfield depth. The Herons were constantly exploited on set pieces or on the counter-attack throughout the season, with central defense and right back being their two biggest needs this winter. They should be in the market for a starting partner next to Tomas Aviles, and an upgrade from Marcelo Weigandt. In the midfield, they'll need to bring in somebody who can take on minuted from Busquets when needed that is a reliable 6.