As the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs near their end, Major League Soccer teams have shifted focus to offseason strategies and roster planning for 2025.

The Seattle Sounders have begun significant transitions with the announcement that star striker Raúl Ruidíaz will leave the club after his contract ends. Ruidíaz, who departs as Seattle’s all-time leading scorer with 86 goals, also contributed to the team’s successes in winning the MLS Cup in 2019 and the Concacaf Champions Cup in 2022. Additionally, Seattle is negotiating with midfielders João Paulo and Albert Rusnák for potential extensions, while several other players have had their contract options either exercised or declined.

FC Cincinnati made headlines by activating the purchase option for Argentine striker Luca Orellano, initially on loan from Vasco da Gama. Orellano had an impressive season, scoring 10 goals and assisting seven times in 33 appearances, and was also awarded the 2024 AT&T MLS Goal of the Year. Cincinnati have also exercised contract options for USMNT center back Miles Robinson and holding midfielder Obinna Nwobodo. Despite these moves, the future of star playmaker and the 2023 Landon Donovan MLS MVP, Luciano Acosta, remains uncertain as he hinted at a possible departure following the team’s playoff exit.

The San Jose Earthquakes, under new leadership with head coach Bruce Arena, are undergoing a roster overhaul after setting an unwanted record of conceding 78 goals in 2024. Key players like goalkeeper William Yarbrough and striker Jeremy Ebobisse are out of contract, opening opportunities for new acquisitions.

LAFC faces a busy offseason with only 19 players under contract. Prominent figures such as Carlos Vela are in talks about their future with the club. LAFC is also considering extensions for central defense personnel including Aaron Long and Jesús Murillo, as they aim to stabilize their squad for 2025.

Real Salt Lake looks to build on their record 59-point season by retaining much of their roster, though the club has parted with veterans Maikel Chang and Marcelo Silva. Another potential shift could be transfer interest in Diego Luna, the standout young performer of 2024.

Minnesota United has entered discussions to possibly extend veteran midfielder Wil Trapp’s time with the team. However, questions remain over what new additions will define their strategy moving forward, following a productive summer transfer window.

Meanwhile, the Colorado Rapids are contemplating improvements after discussions with seasoned players like Lalas Abubakar and Jonathan Lewis. Vancouver Whitecaps, having recently changed their head coach, are reassessing their roster with negotiations for players like Fafà Picault and Ryan Raposo.

Columbus Crew, fresh off a successful season culminated by an MLS Cup win, sees departures including Yaw Yeboah and Alexandru Matan. The club continues to look for reinforcements that align with their championship aspirations.

The Philadelphia Union faces foundational changes with the departure of head coach Jim Curtin and ongoing contract discussions with key players like Alejandro Bedoya, signaling a period of transition.

Atlanta United anticipates an active offseason as they plan to make strategic acquisitions and finalize the roles of players like Ronald Hernández and Jamal Thiaré.

The Chicago Fire, under new director Gregg Berhalter, are preparing for substantial renovations in their roster and coaching strategy after parting ways with several senior players. They aim to reclaim playoff participation for the first time since 2017.

In Toronto, FC Toronto’s focus remains on refining their club identity, with players like Luke Singh and Prince Owusu having their contract options declined, marking potential roster changes.

Sporting Kansas City has cleared space for new signings after the departure of seasoned players such as Johnny Russell and Tim Melia, setting up a transformative offseason.

Austin FC is gearing up for an active winter market with new management at the helm, alongside contract decisions for players like Ethan Finlay and Matt Hedges.

Portland Timbers are managing contract negotiations involving their pivotal players like Evander, while readying their squad for more competitive dynamics in 2025.

Nashville SC, transitioning into a new era under head coach B.J. Callaghan, is restructuring their central midfield and enhancing their defensive strategies by retaining key performers.

Lastly, D.C. United, after missing the playoffs once again, is looking to strengthen their squad with significant roster decisions ahead.

In anticipation of the 2025 MLS season, various clubs are actively making critical roster adjustments and strategic plans to enhance their competitiveness and achieve greater success in upcoming tournaments.

Source: MLSSoccer