The missing ingredient in MLS: Dynasties and legacy clubs

The missing ingredient in MLS: Dynasties and legacy clubs

Major League Soccer has made impressive strides in the last decade. With rapid expansion, improved infrastructure, and the arrival of international stars, the league has grown in both visibility and competitiveness.

Yet in its pursuit of parity, a defining feature of many American sports leagues, MLS may be holding itself back from something even more powerful: the formation of dynasties and legacy teams.

While the concept of “any team can win” creates short-term suspense, the long-term health and cultural relevance of a league often rely on something else entirely — dominance. MLS doesn’t just need more parity; it needs greatness. Here's why winning dynasties and legacy clubs could be the key to MLS reaching the next level.