Don Garber’s Vision for MLS: Insights from Boardroom Talks

The last time Don Garber wasn’t in his current role as MLS Commissioner, it was an entirely different millennium. Over the two-plus decades he has led Major League Soccer, Garber has gained invaluable insights into the world of sports management. In a recent episode of Boardroom Talks, Garber welcomed Boardroom CEO Rich Kleiman, who is also a minority owner of the Philadelphia Union, for an engaging conversation at MLS’ New York City office.

From NFL to MLS: Garber’s Journey

During their discussion, Garber reflected on his early career and how a pivotal job with the NFL jump-started his journey in sports. He shared anecdotes about the challenges and triumphs he faced while navigating the complexities of managing sports owners and the league’s growth. The conversation also touched on the innovative Apple TV streaming partnership, which has set a precedent for other sports teams to follow.

The Messi Effect: A Global Phenomenon

One of the most compelling topics was the impact of superstar players like Lionel Messi and David Beckham on the league’s popularity. Garber expressed his astonishment at Messi’s global influence, stating, “Even I didn’t realize the power, the influence, the awareness, that Leo has around the world.” He noted that Messi’s presence has elevated the profile of MLS, making it a significant player in the global sports arena.

Garber continued, “I see pink Messi jerseys wherever I go. We, in America, have so many great sports stars. They’re basketball stars and hockey stars and baseball stars. But there’s one Messi. If you were going to ask everybody — maybe not Cristiano Ronaldo — but you ask every coach, every player in the world, who the best player ever to play the game is? It’s Messi, and we’re living with him.” This statement underscores the unique position Messi holds in the hearts of fans and players alike.

Scalability and the Modern Fan

In addition to discussing player impact, Garber shared insights on the scalability of MLS and the evolving archetype of the modern fan. He emphasized the importance of understanding fan demographics and preferences to ensure the league’s continued growth. As MLS prepares for the 2026 World Cup, Garber likened the global event to the NFL’s Super Bowl, highlighting the excitement and anticipation surrounding it.

Health and Safety of Players

Another critical aspect of the conversation was the health and safety of MLS players. Garber addressed the league’s commitment to ensuring that players are well taken care of, both on and off the field. He acknowledged the challenges that come with managing player health in a physically demanding sport and reiterated the league’s dedication to providing the necessary resources and support.

What Lies Ahead for MLS

As the conversation wrapped up, Garber shared his vision for the future of MLS. He expressed optimism about the league’s trajectory and the potential for further growth, especially with the influx of international talent and the increasing popularity of soccer in the United States. Fans can expect exciting developments in the coming years as MLS continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of sports.

For more insights from Don Garber and to watch the full interview, check out the original article here.