MLS players navigate balance of club and country as MLS season kicks off in the shadow of the World Cup
CBS Sports
by
Pardeep Cattry
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The start of the MLS season brings a unique challenge for players as they balance club responsibilities with the opportunity to earn a spot on their national teams ahead of the 2026 World Cup. With just over four months until the World Cup begins in the U.S., players like Matt Freese are focused on performing at their best while managing the demands of both club and country. Freese, who recently earned his first call-up to the U.S. men's national team, emphasizes the importance of staying present and improving daily, reflecting the mindset many MLS players share as they aim to impress national team coaches.
The timing is particularly pressing for American players, as head coach Mauricio Pochettino has shown a preference for selecting MLS talent for World Cup rosters. This creates a high-stakes environment where players must perform well in MLS while also preparing for potential international duties. Freese's story highlights the whirlwind of opportunities and responsibilities that come with representing one's country, as he quickly rose through the USMNT ranks after earning his first cap in June 2023.
For many players, this World Cup year marks a unique balancing act between club and country. The MLS season provides a final chance to demonstrate their skills before national team rosters are finalized in late spring. This adds an extra layer of pressure but also an opportunity for growth and recognition on the global stage. Freese's approach—prioritizing consistent improvement and staying grounded—serves as a model for his peers navigating this dual focus.
The broader context of the MLS season unfolding under the shadow of the World Cup also brings strategic opportunities for the league. With the World Cup returning to North America for the first time since 1994, MLS is leveraging the global spotlight to attract top international stars like Lionel Messi and Son Heung-min. The league's decision-makers are focused on maximizing this visibility while finalizing its shift to a fall-to-spring schedule, aligning with major European leagues.
Ultimately, the story of MLS players in a World Cup year highlights the intersection of passion, responsibility, and opportunity in professional sports.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/20/2026