Kasey Keller and Herculez Gomez Support Potential Fall-to-Spring MLS Schedule Shift
Keywords: MLS schedule change, Kasey Keller, Herculez Gomez, MLS Fall-Spring format, US soccer, MLS Europe alignment, transfer window, Don Garber
MLS Considering Major Calendar Shift to Align With European Leagues
As Major League Soccer (MLS) continues to evolve, former USMNT stars Kasey Keller and Herculez Gomez have voiced strong support for a proposed shift in the league’s schedule. The potential move would align MLS with the traditional European calendar — running from fall to spring — a move that could reshape the league’s future and global relevance.
Kasey Keller: “Fans Will Adapt to the Change”
Speaking on Futbol Americas, Keller challenged MLS Commissioner Don Garber’s concerns that fans might resist a new calendar structure. Keller believes the current model, which ends in late fall, is actually less beneficial for the league.
“I think Don is overestimating the impact,” Keller said. “MLS has always done things its own way, but soccer fans know how the global schedule works. A change wouldn’t be that hard to adjust to.”
Keller also referenced a consulting firm hired by MLS years ago. That firm recommended holding the MLS Cup Final during the summer months — ideally in June — to avoid clashing with major U.S. sports like the NFL and NBA.
“Right now, the playoffs are being held during the most congested time in American sports,” Keller added. “If we shifted the playoffs to May or June, the main competition would be early-season MLB games, which have much less national attention.”
Herculez Gomez: “This Is What the Rest of the World Does”
Former U.S. international Herculez Gomez echoed Keller’s sentiment, pointing out the advantages of aligning MLS with the global transfer window.
“It’s easier to buy and sell players, easier to bring in talent, and it positions MLS as a real participant in the global game,” Gomez explained. “This is what the rest of the world does.”
He also addressed the “retirement league” image that MLS is trying to shake.
“If MLS wants to move beyond that, they need to start developing, buying, and selling talent. That means syncing with the international calendar.”
Winter Weather Concerns? Not a Dealbreaker
Both Keller and Gomez dismissed concerns over playing through the colder winter months. Like leagues in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe, MLS could implement a mid-season winter break to account for extreme weather.
“Climate shouldn’t be the deciding factor,” said Gomez. “Other countries have figured it out. So can we.”
Why This Change Matters for the Future of MLS
This potential calendar shift isn’t just about weather or convenience — it’s about competitiveness and global integration. Aligning with international schedules would:
- Improve transfer market flexibility
- Increase visibility and player movement
- Boost MLS credibility on the world stage
- Enhance opportunities to grow talent internally
Final Thoughts: A Bold Step Toward Global Relevance
As MLS continues its growth in North America, aligning with European schedules could mark a turning point. With strong support from respected voices like Keller and Gomez, and increased openness from league leadership, the momentum for a Fall-to-Spring MLS season is clearly building.
