As the countdown to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup continues, U.S. Soccer has authorized a special transfer window from June 1–10, but only for select Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs participating in the tournament. This window offers a rare midseason opportunity for reinforcement—but just three MLS teams will be eligible to use it.
Inter Miami and the Seattle Sounders have already secured their spots in the Club World Cup, while LAFC could join them if they defeat Club América in an upcoming playoff. If LAFC qualifies, they too will be granted access to the window.
The decision, confirmed by U.S. Soccer and reported by GIVEMESPORT, reflects MLS’s commitment to ensuring its Club World Cup representatives are fully equipped. However, it also underscores the league’s complex structure: MLS spans two national federations, and Canadian clubs are excluded from this special window due to a lack of authorization from the Canadian Soccer Association.
To maintain fairness, MLS chose not to extend the window to the other 24 U.S.-based teams, as it would have left the three Canadian clubs (Toronto FC, CF Montréal, and Vancouver Whitecaps) at a disadvantage.
Why This Matters
Unlike European leagues, which are in their offseason during the Club World Cup, MLS is in the midst of its regular season. Most teams have played around 13 of their 34 matches, and the standard secondary transfer window doesn’t open until July 24. By then, clubs will have completed more than 70% of their season—making it difficult for new signings to make a significant impact.
This 10-day early transfer window gives Inter Miami, Seattle, and possibly LAFC a crucial edge. Any players they sign during this period will be eligible not only for the Club World Cup, which begins June 14 in Miami, but also for MLS matches immediately afterward.
A Competitive Advantage
The move has sparked conversation within MLS circles about competitive balance. Participating teams will have the rare advantage of strengthening their rosters ahead of their rivals. With global attention on the Club World Cup, MLS appears keen to ensure its representatives are able to compete at the highest level.
While the decision may not sit well with non-participating clubs, it highlights MLS’s evolving status in the international football landscape—and the strategic importance of global tournaments like the Club World Cup.
