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Leagues Cup 2023 - Final: Inter Miami CF v Nashville SCGetty Images Sport
Tom Hindle

Leagues Cup reportedly set to return in 2025 despite conflict with Club World Cup, Gold Cup

The tournament, which pits MLS sides against their Liga MX counterparts, is expected to continue in 2025 amid criticism, clash with other tournaments

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  • Leagues Cup reportedly to be played in 2025
  • MLS considering new format in which 18 clubs participate
  • Month-long tournament would clash with 2025 Club World Cup, Gold Cup
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  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The oft-criticized Leagues Cup will be played next summer, according to a report from ESPN. The tournament, which included every MLS club and all Liga MX sides, was thrown into jeopardy due to the expected clash with the new 2025 Club World Cup and Gold Cup. Last year, the tournament ran from July 26-August 25, with MLS postponing its regular season.

    The newly-formed Club World Cup, which announced its draw Thursday afternoon, will run from June 15-July 13. Meanwhile, the Gold Cup, an international competition that typically includes players from MLS, is set for June 14-July 6.

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  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    MLS is reportedly considering changes to Leagues Cup next year, though. The 47-team field could be shrunk to just 36, with 18 teams from each league set to feature. Seattle Sounders and Inter Miami will both be in the Club World Cup, although their matchups with top European sides would likely lead to early exits from the competition.

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    There also remains concerns that Leagues Cup conflicts with U.S. Open Cup - a tournament that includes the entirety of the United States soccer pyramid. Last year, MLS clubs were given the option to send their MLS Next Pro youth sides to the tournament. As a result, only eight MLS first team sides appeared.

  • Columbus Crew Leagues Cup 2024Getty

    WHAT NEXT FOR LEAGUES CUP?

    MLS and Liga MX are yet to announce the exact format for Leagues Cup, although it appears the competition will continue. Columbus Crew are the reigning holders after beating LAFC in the final.