MLS Opening Day is almost here, but before the games begin, we decided to rank the entire league from top to bottom:
1. Portland Timbers
The MLS Cup finalists return much of the same core from their 2021 run. Expect the veteran leadership of players like Sebastian Blanco and Diego Chara to lead the Timbers deep again.
2. Philadelphia Union
Last season the Union were one win away from the MLS Cup, all without eleven of their players. This roster is loaded with talent, especially that of Paxten Aaronsen, the younger brother of RB Salzburg’s Brendan Aaronsen.
3. New England Revolution
The return of Carlos Gil will be huge for this Revolution side that won the MLS Supporters’ Shield in 2021. New England should be very competitive in a generally weaker Eastern Conference.
4. Seattle Sounders
Seattle is one of the league’s perennial powers. They enter 2022 as one of the best attacking squads in the league, with talents such as Jordan Morris, Raul Ruidiaz, and Albert Rusnak. We would rank them higher if not for the lack of depth on defense.
5. NYCFC
The defending MLS Cup champions had plenty of luck to thank for last season’s success. Now, they are tasked with having big holes to fill since losing Jesus Medina, Ismael Tajouri-Shradi, and James Sands.
6. Colorado Rapids
7. Nashville
8. Sporting KC
9. LA Galaxy
10. Minnesota United
11. Columbus Crew
12. Orlando City
13. Real Salt Lake
14. New York Red Bulls
15. Montreal
16. Vancouver Whitecaps
17. Toronto FC
18. DC United
19. LAFC
20. Atlanta United
21. Houston Dynamo
22. Inter Miami
23. Chicago Fire
24. FC Dallas
25. San Jose Earthquakes
26. Austin FC
27. FC Cincinnati
28. Charlotte FC