Heading into the 2026 MLS season, the top teams offer few surprising changes. Defending champions Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, have strengthened their squad by filling key gaps in goalkeeper, center back, and forward positions. LAFC looks formidable in the West with a powerful duo of Son Heung-min and Denis Bouanga ready to challenge Miami. Other strong contenders include San Diego, FC Cincinnati, and Vancouver, while Nashville’s signing of Cristian Espinoza boosts their competitiveness.
The potential for surprise teams exists, such as the Chicago Fire under Gregg Berhalter or an Orlando City squad that has signed promising Brazilian under-22 players. Atlanta United, back with coach Tata Martino, and Real Salt Lake could also be dark horses this season.
MLS Preseason Power Rankings
30. Sporting Kansas City
(2025: 7-20-7, 28 points; 15th in West)
Sporting Kansas City, having fired their longtime coach Peter Vermes, now has David Lee as GM tasked with a long-term club restructure that appears challenging for the upcoming season.
29. D.C. United
(2025: 5-18-11, 26 points; 15th in East)
D.C. United had a notable offseason, acquiring players like Tai Baribo and Sean Johnson, but still faces significant needs to become competitive.
28. CF Montréal
(2025: 6-18-10, 28 points; 13th in East)
Montreal is in rebuild mode, making some strategic trades, yet lacks excitement in its current roster, relying heavily on key players like Iván Jaime.
27. St. Louis City
(2025: 8-18-8, 32 points; 13th in West)
After an expansion season, St. Louis began a restructuring process, but lacks depth and forward options, hinting at a rebuilding phase.
26. San Jose Earthquakes
(2025: 11-15-8, 41 points; 10th in West)
With Bruce Arena’s second year, expectations are tempered in San Jose as the team must replace key departures while hoping for Timo Werner’s resurgence.
25. Real Salt Lake
(2025: 12-17-5, 41 points; ninth in West)
RSL’s recent moves, including the addition of Diego Luna and two significant signings, present an opportunity to exceed expectations this season.
24. Atlanta United
(2025: 5-16-13, 28 points; 14th in East)
Returning coach Tata Martino aims to revive Atlanta United, but skepticism remains regarding their ability to perform consistently after recent disappointments.
23. New England Revolution
(2025: 9-16-9, 36 points; 11th in East)
The Revs are focusing on rebuilding under new coach Marko Mitrović, leveraging youth talent but facing hurdles in team cohesion and performance.
22. FC Dallas
(2025: 11-12-11, 44 points; seventh in West)
FC Dallas added new talent but lacks sufficient depth around standout striker Petar Musa, making their ability to compete for playoffs uncertain.
