Lionel Messi and Co. remain favorites, but strong starts from Nashville, San Jose and Vancouver have the league nicely poised heading into a long break.
Obed Vargas has opened up about his memorable on-field confrontation with Lionel Messi, admitting he was overwhelmed by the absurdity of being targeted by his childhood idol. The former Seattle Sounders midfielder explained that his laughter during the 2025 Leagues Cup clash was a product of disbelief rather than a lack of respect.
Despite the Vancouver Whitecaps' 3-0 loss to the Seattle Sounders in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, Thomas Muller remains committed to their continental aspirations. The Canadian team had a hard time stopping their MLS rivals, and the Bayern Munich legend played the whole 90 minutes. To reach the quarter-finals, they face a significant challenge in the second leg.
If you're wondering about the main dates for the upcoming Major League Soccer season, GOAL has you covered - plus more info on how to watch games on TV
GOAL spoke to GMs and chief soccer officers across MLS about the league’s 3.0 vision: the calendar change is progress, but executives say the next steps must come faster.
MLS returns with a packed schedule and familiar chaos. From stars like Messi, Rodriguez, and Son Heung-Min to the teams you can avoid, here’s who’s actually worth your weekend watch.
Obed Vargas is set for a major step forward, leaving the Seattle Sounders to join Atlético Madrid. While several LaLiga clubs had expressed interest in a potential loan move, Atlético plan to keep the 20-year-old midfielder in Madrid, where he is expected to join the first team. Vargas impressed as a homegrown player for Seattle, making 91 appearances.
Mexican-American midfielder Obed Vargas is edging closer to a move to Europe, with reports suggesting a deal could be completed as early as next week. Despite interest from Liga MX sides such as Club América, the Seattle Sounders prospect remains focused on a European transfer as he pushes to strengthen his Mexico World Cup credentials.
Club América have begun shaping their roster for the Clausura 2026 and have identified Obed Vargas as a potential reinforcement for their midfield. According to a report from ESPN, América’s front office has already made contact with the Seattle Sounders midfielder, as the player is also weighing his future in Major League Soccer following the recently completed season.
Former USMNT star Eric Wynalda endorsed Cristian Roldan’s place in the USMNT picture, arguing the 30-year-old Seattle Sounders midfielder brings personality, resilience and a veteran attitude. Wynalda said Roldan’s temperament and work ethic indicated he is unlikely to fold under the pressure of the World Cup stage.
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Seattle Sounders FC
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