# A New Direction for Major League Soccer
As Don Garber prepares to step down as Major League Soccer commissioner after 27 years, he believes the league is entering a new phase—one shaped by emerging American talent, international recognition and continued investment.
Garber’s vision is for MLS to become “among the most competitive leagues in the world.” He pointed to young players such as Cavan Sullivan as examples of the talent that could help raise the league’s profile in the years ahead.
## Cavan Sullivan and the Rise of MLS Youth Talent
MLS has traditionally been associated with established international stars nearing the end of their careers. But a growing group of promising young players is challenging that perception.
Philadelphia Union teenager Cavan Sullivan has attracted particular attention. He scored twice during the United States’ post-World Cup friendly matches, in which the national team won all four games. Sullivan is also set to join Manchester City in January 2028, after he turns 18.
Several other MLS prospects are gaining recognition, too. Adri Mehmeti, Van Parker, Jahmarie Nolan and Caleb Simmons were also named among the world’s top young talents in a recent Guardian list. Their inclusion reflects the league’s expanding role in developing players with potential to compete at the highest levels.
Garber sees Sullivan’s future as a sign of what MLS could become. He imagined the forward, at 26, playing for one of the world’s leading clubs and winning major trophies—while still representing a pathway that began in the United States.
## What MLS Needs to Keep Growing
Garber said that young talent alone will not determine the league’s future. MLS must also strengthen the wider soccer environment in the United States.
He identified several areas that need continued attention:
– Better integration and support for youth soccer
– Stronger links between professional leagues and national teams
– Continued investment in training and playing facilities
– Action to address pay-to-play barriers
– More focus on development across both the men’s and women’s game
These priorities will be important as the United States builds on the attention generated by hosting the World Cup. A stronger development system could help more young players progress from local soccer to professional careers.
## Lionel Messi’s Impact on MLS
While MLS is investing in its next generation, established global stars remain an important part of the league’s growth. Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 brought an unprecedented level of worldwide attention.
The article reports that Inter Miami’s value rose from $585 million in 2023 to $1.35 billion three years later. Messi’s jersey also ranked among the world’s best-selling shirts, while his performances continued to reinforce his status as one of soccer’s leading players.
Garber praised Messi’s focus, commitment and competitiveness, and said he hopes the Argentine star remains in MLS for years to come. Messi’s influence has helped make the league and Inter Miami familiar names to soccer fans around the world.
## Could Harry Kane Become MLS’s Next Global Star?
Garber also welcomed the idea of England captain Harry Kane eventually playing in MLS. He said the league’s long-term goal has been to build a competition attractive enough for elite players to consider choosing it.
Messi’s move showed that MLS can compete for global stars, rather than simply serving as a destination late in their careers. Whether Kane makes that move remains uncertain, but Garber views the possibility as part of the league’s broader ambition.
## Garber’s Next Chapter in U.S. Soccer
After leaving his commissioner role at the end of the year, Garber is set to become chair of Soccer Forward, a U.S. Soccer Federation program focused on mobilizing investment in the future of the game.
His MLS legacy will be shaped by the league’s continued growth, its ability to develop young players and its success in attracting international attention. Garber’s forecast is ambitious, but the rise of prospects such as Cavan Sullivan—and the global impact of Lionel Messi—offers a glimpse of the future he believes MLS can build.