<p>Mexico’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/liga-mx-tv-schedule/">Liga MX</a> has jumped back in front of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">Major League Soccer</a> in recent worldwide power rankings. The United States/Canadian league previously took the 10th spot in Opta’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mls-breaks-into-top-10-strongest-leagues-in-the-world/">worldwide ratings</a> in late March. This climb up the charts meant that MLS moved ahead of Liga MX in the rankings. The Mexican league has typically been CONCACAF’s top division in recent years.</p>



<p>Nevertheless, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/top-soccer-leagues-in-the-world/">new ratings</a> by the British sports analytics firm have since been released. According to Opta, MLS has dropped three spots in the standings. As a result of the movement, Liga MX is now back above the American league. Liga MX is now 11th overall in the company’s ratings. The Russian Premier League has also edged out MLS in the rankings as well.</p>



<h2>Liga MX teams undefeated against MLS rivals in Champions Cup</h2>



<p>The swap in the standings is generally attributed to recent results in the 2024 <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/concacaf-champions-league-tv-schedule/">CONCACAF Champions Cup</a>. The competition is currently in the quarterfinal stage. At the moment, four Liga MX teams and three MLS sides fill out the tournament. Costa Rican club Herediano also qualified for the final eight teams in the competition.</p>



<p>Although the remaining clubs are practically split between Liga MX and MLS, the Mexican sides have been dominant over the United States-based teams. Clubs from the two leagues have so far faced off 11 total times in the competition and Liga MX teams are yet to lose any of these matchups. This impressive form includes MLS sides losing seven of the fixtures, while only picking up four draws in the remaining games.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240404_WST_499307_Miami-Monterrey-Champions-Cup-1200x670_49185eec.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-499378" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Miami-Monterrey-Champions-Cup-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Miami-Monterrey-Champions-Cup-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Miami-Monterrey-Champions-Cup-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Miami-Monterrey-Champions-Cup.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>The three remaining MLS teams are also in a precarious place in the quarterfinals of the Champions Cup. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/club-america-tv-schedule/">Club America</a> thumped the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/new-england-revolution-tv-schedule/">New England Revolution</a> 4-0 in Massachusetts on Tuesday night. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/inter-miami-tv-schedule/">Inter Miami</a> then dropped a home match against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/monterrey-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Monterrey</a> on Wednesday as well. </p>



<p>The MLS side was without Lionel Messi and Monterrey scored both of their goals in the game after Miami’s David Ruiz was sent off. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/columbus-crew-tv-schedule-the-crew/">Columbus Crew</a> was the only American club not to suffer defeat in the stage so far, as they drew at home against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/tigres-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Tigres</a>. </p>



<h2>Americans dominated the 2023 Leagues Cup</h2>



<p>Although the MLS teams will get a chance to redeem themselves in the return legs in Mexico, things are not working out in the competition so far. The Americans previously touted their success over their Mexican counterparts thanks to the 2023 <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/leagues-cup-tv-schedule/">Leagues Cup</a>. MLS teams filled six of the eight quarterfinalists and three of four seminal sides in the tournament. In the end, the final was played between Miami and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/nashville-sc-tv-schedule-watch-the-boys-in-gold/">Nashville</a>, two MLS clubs.</p>



<p>The previous competition, however, was a bit skewed to help the Americans. After all, every single fixture was played last summer at the homes of MLS teams. However, Liga MX is currently taking it to their rivals from the north on a more level playing field. If MLS is to once again jump back ahead of Liga MX in Opta’s ratings, American teams are going to have to make a major comeback in the Champions Cup tournament.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>

Champions Cup shows MLS is still considerably behind Liga MX

Liga MX clubs are currently undefeated against MLS teams in 11 matchups of the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup.

<p>A consortium headed by a former official of the National Hockey League’s Arizona Coyotes is pursuing land in Mesa law amendments to bring more soccer. One of their goals is to see whether the Phoenix region can host a professional stadium, and thus a club. If the measure were to succeed, it would bypass the city of Phoenix in its financing of a mixed-use complex.</p>



<p>Beginning in March 2022 and ending in December 2023, Nick Sakiewicz oversaw the Arizona Coyotes’ business operations. Last month, he spoke in favor of a strike-everything amendment before the Senate Government Committee in Arizona.</p>



<p>He spoke on the proposed law that would alter the state’s approval process for amusement parks and sports entertainment complexes by making it simpler to establish theme park districts. Joe Hoffman, a state senator, proposed the measure.</p>



<h2>What is a strike-everything amendment?</h2>



<p>To get around a deadline for introducing new legislation, a strike-everything amendment simply substitutes new language—possibly on an entirely unrelated subject—for the whole text of an existing bill. Theme park districts are a particular kind of taxing district that, if passed into law, would alter the procedures for creating such districts.</p>



<p>Such districts may impose a sales tax of up to nine percent on goods and services sold inside its borders. The developer may pay off debt incurred throughout the development process using such funds.</p>



<p>With a majority vote, the committee would send the measure to the full Senate for consideration. It would have allowed counties to create such districts even without the consent of the local governments.</p>



<p>Additional theme park districts inside a county would also be possible under this proposal. However, there is no indication that the Senate will consider this measure anytime soon, says the <a href="https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2024/04/01/arizona-coyotes-arena-legislation?hl=Arizona+legislation+could+help+Coyotes+arena+financing,+bring+top-level+soccer+to+Phoenix+area&amp;sc=0&amp;publicationSource=search" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sports Business Journal</a>. It would need a House vote and approval from Governor Katie Hobbs for the measure to become law when it passes the Senate.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240404_WST_499317_Phoenix-Rising-1200x670_54eeabe2.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-499363" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Phoenix-Rising-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Phoenix-Rising-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Phoenix-Rising-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Phoenix-Rising.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>Sakiewicz is part of a group looking at undeveloped property in Mesa as a potential location for professional soccer clubs. Johnson-Stewart Materials now owns the gravel pit that SBJ claims might be used as the site. </p>



<h2>Change in Arizona law could bring professional soccer to area</h2>



<p>According to what he told SBJ, the organization is looking into possibilities. Nonetheless, they aren’t limiting themselves to professional soccer as a possible growth option. He also added that The Pinebrook Group will contact <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">MLS</a> and the NWSL to discuss hosting expansion clubs.</p>



<p>“It’s perfect timing for one of those or both of those leagues to land here,” he said. In addition to hosting international matches, Sakiewicz said that the arena may potentially house the USL Championship club Phoenix Rising. They currently play in a temporary facility, as a tenant or partner.</p>



<p>However, their president Bobby Dulle was quick to dispel such rumors.</p>



<p>“Phoenix Rising FC has not had any conversations with Sakiewicz. The city of Phoenix has been a great partner to us. </p>



<p>“One year ago, we opened our doors in Phoenix for the first time and drew a franchise record, 10,437 fans. This central location and our proximity to the Valley Metro light rail gives Rising the best chance to continue to grow its fan base at this time.”</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>

Arizona law may help bring soccer stadium to Phoenix area

A consortium headed by a former official of the Arizona Coyotes is pursuing land and law reform to bring more professional soccer.

<p>One of the soccer fans’ favorite things to debate is how strong one league is compared to another. A club winning La Liga, such as Real Madrid this season, is not the same task as one of the three clubs battling it out in the Premier League. Given the differences in the quality of the opposition and the fact that these are domestic leagues, it is nearly impossible to directly compare leagues.</p>



<p>One way to compare the two is to use Opta’s power rankings. Opta, a British sports analytics firm, assigns an ability score to each team worldwide. On this scale, the top team in the world, Manchester City, has an ability score of 100. By contrast, the worst team in the world has an ability score of zero. Clubs earn points on their <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2023/01/power-rankings-your-club-ranked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elo rating</a> by beating teams ranking higher than them. Consequently, losing to teams with a lower rating deducts more points from a side’s ability score.</p>



<p>It is a vastly technical process that the number wizards at Opta have been practicing for some time. While there will never be a perfect way to analyze clubs and leagues across competitions, this is perhaps the best holistic approach.</p>



<h2>The top 30 men’s soccer leagues in the world</h2>



<p>The following ratings are the average club rating for every team in a domestic league as of April 3, 2024. These numbers constantly change with the world’s leagues in action. With continental competition, for example, these numbers change often.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>RANK</td><td>LEAGUE</td><td>AVERAGE CLUB RATING</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Premier League</td><td>87.59</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>La Liga</td><td>84.8</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Serie A</td><td>84.7</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Bundesliga</td><td>84.3</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Ligue 1</td><td>83.6</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Primeira Liga</td><td>77.47</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>English Championship</td><td>76.38</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Superligaen</td><td>76.12</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>La Liga 2 (Segunda)</td><td>75.48</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Brasileirao</td><td>75.31</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Liga MX</td><td>75.16</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Russian Premier League</td><td>75.15</td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Major League Soccer</td><td>75.1</td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Swiss Super League</td><td>74.81</td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Eredivisie</td><td>74.79</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Turkish Super Lig</td><td>74.54</td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Argentine Primera</td><td>74.53</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>2. Bundesliga</td><td>74.39</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Austrian Bundesliga</td><td>74.21</td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>HNL Croatia</td><td>74.03</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>K League</td><td>73.49</td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>J League</td><td>73.39</td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Eliteserien</td><td>72.99</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Allsvenskan</td><td>72.18</td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Cyprus First Division</td><td>72.08</td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>Saudi Pro League</td><td>72.01</td></tr><tr><td>27</td><td>Czech First League</td><td>71.81</td></tr><tr><td>28</td><td>Greek Super League</td><td>70.76</td></tr><tr><td>29</td><td>Scottish Premiership</td><td>70.25</td></tr><tr><td>30</td><td>Ekstraklasa</td><td>69.41</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>If you need any indication of how fast these rankings can change, look no further than two weeks prior. Again, these rankings apply specifically to April 3, 2024. On March 26, 2024, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mls-breaks-into-top-10-strongest-leagues-in-the-world/">Major League Soccer cracked the top 10</a>. Now, it is no longer the highest-rated league in North America. Instead, that honor belongs to Liga MX. </p>



<p>Since those rankings from just a few weeks ago, Liga MX sides have had strong results against Major League Soccer in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240403_WST_499198_Club-America-New-England-1200x670_16a60e5c.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-499228" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Club-America-New-England-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Club-America-New-England-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Club-America-New-England-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Club-America-New-England.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Averages ranked among the top soccer leagues in the world</h2>



<p>Looking at the above chart, certain teams from those leagues prop up each of those leagues. The Eredivisie is one example. PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord rank in the top 40 clubs in the world. However, those two clubs are dragged down by Vitesse, Excelsior and Volendam. None of those clubs creep into the top 900 clubs in the world. Consequently, the league’s average ranks it as No. 15 in the world. </p>



<p>On the other hand, having a compact league can help the rankings. Major League Soccer shows that, as the highest-ranking team is the Columbus Crew, at No. 145. Twenty-five of MLS’s 29 teams are inside the top 500 clubs in the world That greatly helps the league’s positioning on average.</p>



<p>That said, here are the top clubs from each of those divisions to get a grasp on where they fall. The league rank on the left side is where the average falls. As a result, the best club’s rating will not follow numerical order.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>League Rank</td><td>League</td><td>Best rated club</td><td>Best club’s rating</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Premier League</td><td>Manchester City</td><td>100</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>La Liga</td><td>Real Madrid</td><td>97.5</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Serie A</td><td>Inter Milan</td><td>97.3</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Bundesliga</td><td>Bayer Leverkusen</td><td>94</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Ligue 1</td><td>PSG</td><td>95.2</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Primeira Liga</td><td>Sporting CP</td><td>89.7</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Championship</td><td>Leeds</td><td>83.6</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Superligaen</td><td>Kobenhavn</td><td>82.6</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Segunda Division</td><td>Eibar</td><td>78.5</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Brasileirao</td><td>Palmeiras</td><td>80.6</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Liga MX</td><td>Club America</td><td>83.1</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Russian Premier League</td><td>Zenit</td><td>82.8</td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>MLS</td><td>Columbus Crew</td><td>79.6</td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Swiss Super League</td><td>Young Boys</td><td>80.8</td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Eredivisie</td><td>PSV Eindhoven</td><td>88.6</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Turkish Super Lig</td><td>Fenerbahce</td><td>86</td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Argentine Primera</td><td>River Plate</td><td>80.8</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>2. Bundesliga</td><td>St. Pauli</td><td>80.4</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Austrian Bundesliga</td><td>RB Salzburg</td><td>86.3</td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>HNL (Croatia)</td><td>Dinamo Zagreb</td><td>82</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>K League</td><td>Ulsan</td><td>78</td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>J League</td><td>Vissel Kobe</td><td>78.4</td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Eliteserien</td><td>Bodo/Glimt</td><td>82.6</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Allsvenskan</td><td>Malmo FF</td><td>77.8</td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Cyprus First division</td><td>APOEL</td><td>79.7</td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>Saudi Pro League</td><td>Al Hilal</td><td>86.4</td></tr><tr><td>27</td><td>Czech</td><td>Slavia Praha</td><td>83.7</td></tr><tr><td>28</td><td>Greek Super League</td><td>PAOK</td><td>81.3</td></tr><tr><td>29</td><td>Scottish Premiership</td><td>Rangers</td><td>83.1</td></tr><tr><td>30</td><td>Ekstraklasa</td><td>Rakow Czestochowa</td><td>79.1</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2>Looking at the ‘best of the worst’ clubs in each league</h2>



<p>It would also be fair to see the bottom half of these extremes to even out.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Rank</td><td>League</td><td>Worst rated club</td><td>Worst club’s rating</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Premier League</td><td>Sheffield United</td><td>79.3</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>La Liga</td><td>Almeria</td><td>76.5</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Serie A</td><td>Salernitana</td><td>76.5</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Bundesliga</td><td>Darmstadt 98</td><td>76.6</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Ligue 1</td><td>Metz</td><td>76.8</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Primeira Liga</td><td>Portimonense</td><td>70.9</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Championship</td><td>Rotherham United</td><td>69.6</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Superligaen</td><td>Hvidovre</td><td>69.5</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Segunda Division</td><td>Villarreal II</td><td>71.3</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Brasileirao</td><td>Criciuma</td><td>72.7</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Liga MX</td><td>Juarez</td><td>69.6</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Russian Premier League</td><td>Sochi</td><td>71.2</td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>MLS</td><td>Toronto FC</td><td>69.6</td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Swiss Super League</td><td>Stade-Lausanne-Ouchy</td><td>69.6</td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Eredivisie</td><td>Volendam</td><td>66.5</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Turkish Super Lig</td><td>Istanbulspor</td><td>66.7</td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Argentine Primera</td><td>Tigre</td><td>70.1</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>2. Bundesliga</td><td>Hansa Rostock</td><td>70.2</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Austrian Bundesliga</td><td>Austria Lustenau</td><td>67.1</td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>HNL (Croatia)</td><td>Rudes</td><td>65.5</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>K League</td><td>Suwon</td><td>68.6</td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>J League</td><td>Sagan Tosu</td><td>69.8</td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Eliteserien</td><td>Sandefjord</td><td>68.7</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Allsvenskan</td><td>Halmstad</td><td>68.5</td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Cyprus First division</td><td>AE Zakakiou</td><td>63.6</td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>Saudi Pro League</td><td>Al Hazm</td><td>65.7</td></tr><tr><td>27</td><td>Czech</td><td>Ceske Budejovice</td><td>65.4</td></tr><tr><td>28</td><td>Greek Super League</td><td>Kifisia</td><td>63.5</td></tr><tr><td>29</td><td>Scottish Premiership</td><td>Livingston</td><td>62.6</td></tr><tr><td>30</td><td>Ekstraklasa</td><td>Lks Lodz</td><td>67.4</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Opta Sports Analytics - Behind The Scenes And Interviews With The Sports Data Mavens" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ySlAzS8Oouw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>

Top soccer leagues in the world as ranked by Opta

The top soccer leagues in the world are nearly impossible to be ranked accurately. One metric provides insight as to where they stand.

Top soccer leagues in the world as ranked by Opta - World Soccer Talk

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<p>Apple’s MLS Season Pass could very well soon be available for soccer fans in China. The streaming service is the current home of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">Major League Soccer</a> here in North America. The top flight previously agreed to a 10-year, $2.5 billion deal to exclusively broadcast all MLS and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/leagues-cup-tv-schedule/">Leagues Cup</a> games.</p>



<p>MLS Season Pass is currently accessible in a plethora of countries around the world. Nevertheless, China is <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/countries-where-mls-season-pass-isnt-available-20230726-WST-439842.html">not one of these nations</a> at the moment. This, however, could change in the coming months according to a new report. <em><a href="https://www.theinformation.com/articles/apples-vision-pro-gets-boost-from-chinas-media-kingmaker" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Information</a></em> claims that Apple hasn’t launched any subscription or media services in China since 2017 because “it has faced rising government restrictions on its existing businesses, such as iCloud.” </p>



<p>The news outlet goes on to add that Apple is now pursuing ways to launch its content services, such as Apple TV+, in China. Apple TV+ is not exactly the same as MLS Season Pass, but they are closely related. If Apple does extend into China shortly, MLS Season Pass would certainly be involved in the move.</p>



<h2>Apple looking to expand business as iPhone sales plummet</h2>



<p>While the streaming service is not currently available in China, Apple does currently sell their iPhones in the country. Despite being the second-largest market in the world behind the United States, iPhone sales have fallen dramatically in recent months. Bloomberg recently reported that shipments of the smartphone to China were down 33% compared to the previous year.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240402_WST_498877_Messi-China-MLS-1200x670_d047a25b.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-498897" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Messi-China-MLS-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Messi-China-MLS-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Messi-China-MLS-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Messi-China-MLS.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>As a result of falling phone sales, Apple would love to create additional revenue in the lucrative Chinese market. Despite the previous concerns, launching Apple TV+, as well as MLS Season Pass, in China would unquestionably give the tech company a significant financial boost.</p>



<p>China’s overall population has surpassed 1.4 billion and much like the U.S., soccer is growing in the Asian nation. It was <a href="https://gitnux.org/most-popular-sports-in-china/#:~:text=Soccer%20is%20identified%20as%20the,leagues%20among%20the%20Chinese%20audience." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported</a> back in 2020 that 600 million people in China watched the English Premier League. The opportunity for MLS to expand its audience and reach these fans is an opportunity too good to pass up.</p>



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<center><h4>Our Pick:</h4>
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<h2>MLS worries about recent PR disaster in Hong Kong</h2>



<p>At the same time, there will be concerns about the reception Lionel Messi and MLS could face in China after the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/messi-posts-video-to-explain-his-side-of-the-hong-kong-story-20240219-WST-490555.html">PR disaster</a> that happened in Hong Kong. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/inter-miami-tv-schedule/">Inter Miami</a> previously played a friendly in Hong Kong during their preseason preparations. The Argentine superstar traveled with his team. Most fans expected Messi to feature in the game. Nevertheless, Messi never made it off of the bench and later revealed that he was dealing with a minor injury.</p>



<p>Despite the injury, Messi managed to play in Japan just a few days later. As a result, Hong Kong fans were left furious that they paid high prices for the game, only for the star to not even play. Match organizers eventually offered a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/messi-no-show-results-in-hong-kong-promoter-losing-money-20240209-WST-488590.html">50% refund</a> to the complaining fans. </p>



<p>World Soccer Talk reached out to Apple on the issue, but the spokesperson was unavailable for comment.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>



<div style="background:#f9e4ea;padding:10px;">
<h3>Guide to Major League Soccer</h3>
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Messi and MLS Season Pass may be coming to China

Apple is looking to expand its business in China by making MLS Season Pass available for soccer fans in the Asian nation.

Messi and MLS Season Pass may be coming to China - World Soccer Talk

<p>Major League Soccer (MLS) continues to climb up the list of the best leagues in the world, largely as a credit to success in the Leagues Cup. In August 2023, British sports analytics company Opta ranked MLS the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mls-ranked-29th-strongest-league-in-the-world-per-opta-20230815-WST-450215.html">29th strongest division</a> in the world of soccer. By the fall, MLS halved that ranking to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/best-soccer-leagues-in-the-world-according-to-opta-20231002-WST-459681.html">reach No. 15 in the world</a>. Now, as <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">Major League Soccer</a> enters its second full season of its Apple TV deal, it keeps rising against the competition.</p>



<p>As of March 2024, <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2024/03/the-strongest-leagues-in-world-football-opta-power-rankings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Opta</a> ranks Major League Soccer No. 10 worldwide. Falling out of the top 10 to make room for MLS are the Swiss Super League and the Eredivisie. Opta calculates this ranking by using the <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2023/01/power-rankings-your-club-ranked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elo-ranking system</a>, which does its best to compare teams from different divisions. According to this Opta ranking, Major League Soccer has done well enough in cross-border competition, while staying balanced on home turf, to climb up the rankings. </p>



<p>That includes jumping Mexico’s Liga MX, which has held dominance in the Opta rankings for some time. Now, Major League Soccer is the highest-rated league in North America. Moreover, it is the second highest-rated league outside of Europe, with the Brasileirao edging MLS for the ninth spot in the world rankings. </p>



<ol><li><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a> (ENG)</li><li><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-la-liga-on-us-tv-and-internet/">LaLiga</a> (ESP)</li><li><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-serie-a-on-us-tv-and-internet/">Serie A</a> (ITA)</li><li><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-the-bundesliga-on-us-tv-and-internet/">Bundesliga</a> (GER)</li><li><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-ligue-un-on-us-tv-and-internet/">Ligue 1</a> (FRA)</li><li>Belgian Pro League (BEL)</li><li>Primeira Liga (POR)</li><li>Superligaen (DEN)</li><li><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/how-to-watch-the-brasileirao-on-us-tv/">Brasileirao</a> (BRA)</li><li>Major League Soccer (USA)</li></ol>



<h2>How MLS clubs stack up amongst the strongest leagues in the world</h2>



<p>Yet, it is not an MLS club to top the rankings of clubs in North America. Instead, that title belongs to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/club-america-tv-schedule/">Club America</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/monterrey-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Monterrey</a>, which are 87th and 96th, respectively, among the list of clubs in the world. The top MLS club is the reigning MLS Cup Champion <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/columbus-crew-tv-schedule-the-crew/&apos;">Columbus Crew</a>, which ranks 139th in the world.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Nashville SC vs. Columbus Crew | Bicycle Kick Goal + Mukhtar&apos;s Drought Ends! | Full Match Highlights" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qCYJayp-kiQ?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>Therefore, if you are curious how MLS could rank higher than Liga MX, the average club in Liga MX is lower than Major League Soccer. In a combined table with of the Opta rankings between the two divisions, 13 of the top 20 clubs in terms of ranking hail from the United States. Likewise, three of the bottom four clubs in this hypothetical table come from Mexico. Opta ranks Juarez and Puebla below <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/toronto-fc-tv-schedule/">Toronto FC</a>, which is considerably lower than the next-worst MLS club, the San Jose Earthquakes. </p>



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<center><h4>Our Pick:</h4>
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<h2>Comparing MLS to the Saudi Pro League</h2>



<p>Much of the focus on Major League Soccer, and certainly something that bolstered the league, was the arrival of Lionel Messi. Now playing in his first full season with Inter Miami, Messi is making his presence felt. However, he still draws <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/ronaldo-vs-messi-what-if-ronaldo-had-signed-with-mls-20240220-WST-490672.html">comparisons to Cristiano Ronaldo</a>. Consequently, that compares MLS to the Saudi Pro League.</p>



<p>The Saudi Public Investment fund clubs of Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr all rank higher than any MLS club. The bottom Saudi Pro League clubs are lower than the bottom MLS clubs, and that drags down the Saudi Pro League’s average. As a result, MLS ranks higher in the Opta rankings.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Opta Sports Analytics - Behind The Scenes And Interviews With The Sports Data Mavens" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ySlAzS8Oouw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>

MLS breaks into top 10 strongest leagues in the world

Major League Soccer, or MLS, continues to climb the list of the best leagues in the world, largely as a credit to success in the Leagues Cup.

MLS breaks into top 10 strongest leagues in the world - World Soccer Talk

<p>Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home against New York City FC saw Inter Miami drop points for the third time in the last four games. The lone win in those games came against DC United in a performance where Luis Suarez scored two goals to get the three points. Yet, the pair of losses and the draw have not come against strong teams. Instead, the club lost handsomely on the road against the New York Red Bulls and at home against Montreal. The one consistency with these games is the lack of Lionel Messi in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/inter-miami-tv-schedule/">Inter Miami</a> squad. </p>



<p>The club has tried to ensure Messi is available for the big games throughout the season. For example, the ongoing CONCACAF Champions Cup yields a concerted effort out of Miami, as seen with its defeat of Nashville SC in the Champions Cup Round of 16. Miami manager Tata Martino has rested Messi to ensure he is fully fit for that competition. For example, he sat the Argentine against Montreal before starting Messi against Nashville three days later.</p>



<p>So far this season, Messi and Inter Miami have been prioritizing CONCACAF Champions Cup over MLS. As a result, many Inter Miami season ticket holders have missed seeing Messi play in as many games as usual (CONCACAF Champions Cup tickets are not included). Plus, MLS Season Pass subscribers have missed out on seeing Messi as much this season too. CONCACAF Champions Cup games have been shown exclusively on FOX Sports (in English), and not Apple TV.</p>



<h2>Inter Miami needs Messi</h2>



<p>If there is one thing resting Messi has shown, it is that the club is wildly dependent on the World Cup winner. That is not overly surprising. Teams regardless of talent or competition rely on their biggest players. Moreover, other clubs have used Messi as a means to success. Barcelona floundered without its captain in the squad. The season after he left, the Catalan club was ninth in the league at the one-third mark of the season.</p>



<p>The severity of those Barcelona struggles echoes onto Inter Miami currently. With Messi in the squad for specifically <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">Major League Soccer</a> games, Inter Miami is cruising. Two wins and a draw had Inter Miami shoot up the MLS table early on. Messi, unsurprisingly, had a major hand to play in that success. He assisted in the season-opening win against Real Salt Lake before scoring in second-half stoppage time at LA Galaxy. Then, he scored a brace at home against Orlando City.</p>



<h2>Inter Miami is a different team without Lionel Messi</h2>



<p>Without Messi’s calming presence and creative threat, Inter Miami is a shell of itself. Even in the <a href="https://youtu.be/__AZudwyXhY?si=tQSwsXuItYi1SElX" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">win against DC United</a>, Inter Miami’s goals came after scrappy moves forward, often on the counter-attack. One of the key differences is the fact that Inter Miami may hold possession, but Messi makes use of the ball. Having Sergio Busquets consistently in the midfield ensures Inter Miami has a base to build on. Likewise, Luis Suarez will provide a finishing touch. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240401_WST_498574_Suarez-NYRB-1200x670_3e49520d.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-498577" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Suarez-NYRB-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Suarez-NYRB-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Suarez-NYRB-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Suarez-NYRB.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>Messi is the bridge that allows the possession of Inter Miami to become goals. In the 4-0 loss at the New York Red Bulls, Inter Miami held 70% of the ball, but Miami only mustered two shots on target. Likewise, Inter Miami dominated possession against Montreal. Yet, the two sides were level on shots, with Montreal winning by one goal.</p>



<p>That has been the best part of Messi’s skill set. His dribbling ability allows him to pick up the ball deep from someone like Sergio Busquets. He carries it forward into the opponent’s territory where he can deliver it to Luis Suarez or finish it himself. The lack of Messi separates Inter Miami into three categories. There is the forward group with Suarez and Leonardo Campana. They are separated for much of the game with the midfield and Sergio Busquets. Finally, the defensive crop of players, which has been struggling with and without Messi this season, is on an island behind the midfield. </p>



<p></p><table class="table5" style="border: 5px solid red;">
<tbody>
<tr class="table5" style="width:100%">
<td style="width:70%">
<center><h4>Our Pick:</h4>
Includes: Every regular season game, MLS Cup Playoffs, Leagues Cup, &amp; More</center>
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<center><a href="https://tv.apple.com/channel/tvs.sbd.7000?itsct=wst_mls&amp;itscg=30200&amp;at=1010l35s4&amp;ct=rvo" target="blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"><figure class="image"><img src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240401_WST_498574_MLSSPRVO_5b004baa.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=100" alt="MLS Season Pass" width="200" height="100"></figure></a></center></td>
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<h2>The negative outlook for Inter Miami</h2>



<p>Inter Miami struggling while Messi misses games due to rest or slight injury provides a preview of how a more serious injury would hinder the club. In a way, Tata Martino is protecting the club from what it is currently suffering from. As Messi continues to age, his availability will continue to dwindle. MLS seasons, especially one when Inter Miami is looking to make a deep run in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, are long, and Miami could <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/how-many-games-will-messi-play-in-2024-for-inter-miami-20231205-WST-475025.html">play as many as 60 games this season</a> if all goes to plan. Having already missed over half of the games in MLS play, it will be interesting to see if Miami continues this trend. </p>



<p>Once the CONCACAF Champions Cup passes by early June, one would think Messi will become more available. However, commitments to the Argentina national team make the possibility of fielding Messi regularly in MLS unlikely. That will set up struggles for Inter Miami throughout the season in league play.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>



<div style="background:#f9e4ea;padding:10px;">
<h3>Guide to Major League Soccer</h3>
<div style="padding:10px;">
Here are some resources to help you get the most out of MLS Season Pass!</div>
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<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/"><strong>TV Schedule:</strong></a> All the info on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">where and when to watch</a> every game</div>
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<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-faq-20230203-WST-413216.html/"><strong>Season Pass FAQ:</strong></a> We <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-faq-20230203-WST-413216.html/">answer your questions</a> about MLS Season Pass</div>
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Inter Miami cannot win when Lionel Messi does not play

Another game dropping points has highlighted the struggles Inter Miami will face if it continues to rest Lionel Messi.

<p>Inter Miami is offering their fans discounted tickets for the club’s upcoming home fixture with Mexican side <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/monterrey-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Monterrey</a> to boost sales. The matchup will be the first leg of the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/concacaf-champions-league-tv-schedule/">CONCACAF Champions Cup</a> quarterfinals. The tournament is essentially the confederation’s answer to the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/champions-league-tv-schedule/">UEFA Champions League</a> but without a group stage. It will be <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/inter-miami-tv-schedule/">Miami</a>‘s first time taking part in the quarterfinals of the competition.</p>



<p>Miami’s home match against Monterrey is scheduled for Wednesday, April 3 at 8 p.m. ET. Despite seemingly being a big fixture, ticket sales have been disappointing so far. As a result, the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">Major League Soccer</a> side has issued a rare discount code for fans looking to purchase tickets.</p>



<h2>Discount code only accessible through a specific link </h2>



<p>Fans wanting to take advantage of the markdown must start the process by visiting a <a href="https://offer.fevo.com/quaterfinals-inter-miami-v-cf-monterrey-tpsnma8-11fcd1c?fevoUri=quaterfinals-inter-miami-v-cf-monterrey-tpsnma8-11fcd1c%2F" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">specific link</a> provided by the club. Once the link is clicked, fans will then have to enter PACKTHEHOUSE in the promo code section. Using the code through the link will unlock savings on tickets in certain areas. The promotion is only valid in upper-level seating of Chase Stadium (formerly DRV PNK Stadium). Each buyer can only purchase up to six tickets using the code as well.</p>



<p>The cheapest ticket using the discount code is $60 in section 125. This area is directly behind one of the goals at the arena. Seats in this section on <a href="https://www.stubhub.com/concacaf-champions-league-fort-lauderdale-tickets-4-3-2024/event/153264126/?quantity=2&amp;sections=1697934&amp;ticketClasses=4963&amp;rows=&amp;seatTypes=&amp;listingQty=" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">StubHub</a> currently start at $76 each. Tickets to sections 113 and 114, along the sidelines, are also available for a lower price as well. These seats can be purchased for $90. Tickets in this specific area typically go for up to $150 each on the aforementioned ticket exchange and resale website.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240327_WST_497582_Chase-Stadium-tickets-1200x670_b25eed5f.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-497605" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Chase-Stadium-tickets-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Chase-Stadium-tickets-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Chase-Stadium-tickets-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Chase-Stadium-tickets.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Three factors affect Inter Miami discounted ticket sales</h2>



<p>Miami’s move to offer the discount code ultimately comes down to three reasons. First of all, Lionel Messi is currently injured and may miss the Monterrey match. The superstar has not featured for the club since March 13th and was recently unavailable for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/argentina-national-team-tv-schedule/">Argentina</a>‘s two friendlies in the United States. Although Messi has not yet been ruled out for the game on April 3rd, there is some uncertainty regarding his availability.</p>



<p>There has also been a clear lack of interest in the earlier round of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Just <a href="https://twitter.com/worldsoccertalk/status/1767914417428087165" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">137,000 people</a> watched Miami’s thrilling draw against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/nashville-sc-tv-schedule-watch-the-boys-in-gold/">Nashville</a> on FS2 in the first leg of the previous round. Miami then could not come particularly close to selling out their home stadium for the return fixture of the matchup. Messi featured, and scored, in both legs of the round of 16.</p>



<p>Clubs have also found it difficult to sell out stadiums for midweek matches. Tournament fixtures such as the CONCACAF Champions Cup or <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/us-open-cup-tv-schedule/">U.S. Open Cup</a> are generally played during the middle of the week. American soccer fans seemingly prefer to attend matches on the weekend.</p>



<p>There is also the structure of the knockout tournament to consider as well. Teams do not have a lot of time to sell tickets between each matchup. Miami only just announced that tickets are on sale and the upcoming game with Monterrey is now just one week away.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>

Inter Miami takes steps after low ticket sales for Monterrey game

Inter Miami is offering fans a rare chance to buy a discounted ticket for the club's upcoming home fixture with Monterrey after low sales.

<p>Major League Soccer players, coaches, and fans can breathe a sigh of relief after news regarding the referee lockout broke late Monday night. Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) members have approved a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the division. This means that the month-long lockout of the professional referees has come to an end.</p>



<p>Due to the previous dispute, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">MLS</a> used <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mls-to-start-2024-season-with-replacement-referees-20240218-WST-490458.html">replacement referees</a> during the early stages of the 2024 season. These new refs have seemingly been under constant fire from players and coaches throughout the opening month of the campaign. </p>



<p>Not only have those involved with MLS clubs publicly voiced their concerns about these replacement refs, but the PSRA even recently issued a scathing statement on the issue as well. The union that represents referees used in MLS lambasted the replacements and the league for their part in the lockout. PSRA officials went as far as to say that “<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/enough-is-enough-mls-replacement-referee-errors-are-maddening/">points were lost</a>” directly due to the refs in place.   </p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The MLS referee lockout has ended as the PSRA has voted to ratify a new CBA 👍 <a href="https://t.co/KMg47KkgmJ">pic.twitter.com/KMg47KkgmJ</a></p>— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/1772610975528546650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2024</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>Referees and assistants receive serious salary raises</h2>



<p>Nevertheless, veteran MLS referees will now be back on the pitch starting Saturday, March 30th. League exec Nelson Rodriguez announced his excitement with the agreement now in place. “We’re pleased this agreement provides PRO with a strong, long-term partnership to continue to develop and train the referees to make our officiating even better,” <a href="https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/mls-statement-on-new-cba-for-match-officials-x5212" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proclaimed</a> Rodriguez</p>



<p>“We look forward to having the PRO match officials return this weekend, and we thank MLS players, coaches, and clubs for their professionalism, and our fans for their support throughout the opening month of the season.”</p>



<p>According to a report by <em><a href="https://theathletic.com/5368703/2024/03/26/mls-referees-cba-deal-vote/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Athletic</a></em>, the traditional officials will receive a significant raise in the new deal. Referees who currently have the least amount of experience are set for a 68% increase in salary. Referees with less than two years on the job previously made $50,000 per year in the old agreement. These officials, however, will now rake in just over $85,000 annually.</p>



<p>Vastly experienced officials will also earn a pay raise as well. Referees that have currently worked at least 200 MLS matches are set to make over $142,000 each season. This is around $34,000 more than they earned in the previous season. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240326_WST_497429_Seattle-referee-1200x670_05c530e0.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-497446" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Seattle-referee-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Seattle-referee-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Seattle-referee-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Seattle-referee.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>Assistant referees (AR), however, are receiving some of the biggest raises based on percentage points. A full-time AR that has worked at least 100 MLS games will see their salary nearly double. Officials in this bracket earned around $19,000 in 2023. From now on, they will make over $37,000. The new agreement will now be in place through the end of the 2030 season.</p>



<h2>MLS will hope that the new deal helps end bad publicity </h2>



<p>Players, coaches, and fans will almost certainly disagree with referees no matter who they are. Nevertheless, the replacement officials were not succeeding, and traditional referees will be welcomed back with open arms. MLS execs previously asserted that the replacements were equally as qualified as the real refs, but PSRA and the MLS Players Association publicly disagreed with the notion. </p>



<p>The new deal, however, now ends unwanted pressure and bad publicity for MLS. League officials need the American/Canadian top flight to flourish particularly due to Lionel Messi’s involvement and the recent broadcasting deal with Apple. Signing the Argentine superstar was a major coup. He arrived Stateside to help boost interest in the league.</p>



<p>MLS and Apple are in year two of their massive $2.5 billion deal. Commissioner Garber and company reportedly told their announcers and commentators not to discuss the previous refereeing labor dispute on the air. Despite the headaches, professional referees are going to be back on the pitch in MLS.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>

MLS referee lockout ends as match officials earn pay raises

The Major League Soccer referee lockout has ended after a new collective bargaining agreement was agreed upon between the PSRA and MLS.

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