Recently, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the former LA Galaxy star who played in Major League Soccer (MLS), told ESPN that the league’s development has been slower than it should be due to having too many rules.
Ibrahimovic is undoubtedly one of the biggest names to have left his mark on the MLS. The Swede played for the Galaxy for two seasons between 2018 and 2019 before returning to Europe, where he ended his playing career at AC Milan. Since Ibrahimovic’s departure, the league has expanded from 24 teams to 29, with San Diego FC set to join as the 30th team in 2025. Last year also saw record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi join Inter Miami, marking the biggest signing in MLS history.
However, Ibrahimovic, now a senior advisor at AC Milan, told ESPN’s First Take that the level of play in the MLS still has room for improvement compared to top European leagues.
“The MLS is moving in the right direction, but I think its growth is slow because I remember when I was here – and it’s still the same – there are too many rules that limit faster growth. The development of the MLS is actually a slow process. But when it comes to the quality of the game and individual player skills, they are getting better and better. Also, the United States will host the World Cup in 2026, which is particularly important for this country and the MLS,” said Ibrahimovic.
Ibrahimovic also noted that the MLS needs to continue developing young talent while also bringing in established stars. “I believe that when big-name players come to play in the U.S. and show their skills, the American people can better understand the level of European football. Although the level in Europe is much higher, the MLS is growing. At the same time, you need to build the MLS from the ground up, not just relying on bringing in big-name stars because they are the present, but young talents are the future,” he added.
Unlike top European leagues, MLS clubs are restricted by salary caps, with only three designated players able to earn above the club budget, and three players aged 22 or under counted at a lower budget charge. Since Messi’s arrival, the MLS has faced increasing pressure, with clubs calling for rule relaxation to capitalize on the Argentine superstar’s presence and the upcoming 2026 World Cup hosted in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, to further develop the league.