Major League Soccer (MLS) is growing faster than your favorite influencer’s fan base. And now that superstars like Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez have joined the party, it’s no surprise more people are finally going, “Wait, America has a soccer league?” Yes, Karen. Yes, it does. And don’t worry—we get it. Americans love to say “soccer,” despite the rest of the world snickering every time they hear it. It’s your thing. Own it.
What Are Discovery Rights in MLS (And Why Does It Sound Like a Sci-Fi Plot?)
Today’s keyword is Discovery Rights, because MLS couldn’t just do soccer transfers like the rest of the world. No, that would be easy. MLS decided, “Let’s make it weird.”.
Here’s the deal: MLS clubs have been using what’s called a Discovery List since 1996. Each club can put up to 7 players from anywhere in the world on this magical list. And if that player ever wants to come to MLS? BAM! That club gets first dibs.
You heard that right. Even if the player has no clue what Kansas City is, if Sporting KC had his name on the list, they get the first chance to make a deal. True story—Sporting Kansas City used to have the Discovery Rights to Cristiano Ronaldo. That’s right, that Ronaldo. Did he end up in Kansas? Nope. But they technically had a chance. Crazy, right?
Wait, What If Another Team Wants That Player?
Good question, imaginary reader! If another MLS team wants a player who’s already on another team’s Discovery List, they can trade for the Discovery Rights. That’s right—teams trade for the right to negotiate with someone. Sounds like high school dating life, but with contracts and legalities.
Free Agency in MLS: It’s Not That Free
Now onto Free Agency, as it is also doing its own thing in MLS land. A player can become a free agent if and only if:
- He is at least 24 years old.
- He has been playing in MLS for 5 years.
- His contract is expiring or the team did not pick up the option.
Once they check all of those boxes, then and only then can they go and approach any MLS club and try to negotiate a better deal. It’s soccer Tinder—but you have to wait 5 years before you are even allowed to swipe.
So, What’s the Point of All This?
In most countries, if a team wants a player, they make an offer, agree on a fee, and hand over a huge paycheck. MLS, on the other hand, said, “Let’s throw in Discovery Rights, Free Agency rules, and trade negotiations to keep everyone on their toes.”
Is it confusing? A bit. Entertaining? Absolutely.
So the next time you hear whispers of Paul Pogba or Kevin De Bruyne making a move to the U.S., just know that there is likely a spreadsheet somewhere with a list of who owns their Discovery Rights. Because why not?
Credit: Original info by Khel Now
