Neymar’s MLS Move: A New Chapter in American Soccer? 
As Major League Soccer (MLS) gears up for the 2025 season, teams are making significant roster moves and transfers to enhance their competitiveness. Notable trades and acquisitions have already set the stage for an exciting season ahead, with clubs looking to improve their standings and attract top talent.
Key Takeaways
- Record Transfers: New England Revolution acquired Leo Campana from Inter Miami for a record fee of $2.5 million in guaranteed General Allocation Money (GAM).
- Season Kickoff: The 2025 MLS season will officially begin on February 22, featuring a Texas Derby between Houston Dynamo FC and FC Dallas.
- New Teams: San Diego FC will make its MLS debut this season, adding to the league’s competitive landscape.
Major Transfers and Roster Moves
The transfer window has seen several clubs making bold moves to strengthen their squads. Here are some of the most significant transactions:
New England Revolution
- In: Leo Campana (from Inter Miami) for up to $3.25 million GAM.
- Out: Giacomo Vrioni (potential transfer abroad).
Inter Miami CF
- Out: Leo Campana (to New England Revolution), Diego Gómez (to Brighton & Hove Albion).
Houston Dynamo FC
- In: Jimmy Maurer (free agent).
- Out: Several players including McKinze Gaines and Héctor Herrera.
FC Cincinnati
- In: Kévin Denkey (from Cercle Brugge), Luca Orellano (from Vasco da Gama).
- Out: Multiple players including Nick Hagglund and Niko Gioacchini.
2025 Season Schedule Highlights
The 2025 MLS season will feature a full schedule of 34 matches for each team, running from February 22 to October 18. Here are some key matchups:
| Date | Matchup | Time (CT) |
|---|---|---|
| February 22 | FC Dallas vs. Houston Dynamo | 7:30 PM |
| March 2 | Houston Dynamo vs. Inter Miami | 6:00 PM |
| April 5 | LAFC vs. Houston Dynamo | 7:30 PM |
| July 5 | Houston Dynamo vs. San Diego FC | 9:30 PM |
| October 18 | Sporting Kansas City vs. Houston Dynamo | 8:00 PM |
New Teams and Expansions
The 2025 season will also see the debut of San Diego FC, which adds a new dynamic to the league. The team will face Houston Dynamo FC for the first time on July 5, 2025.
Conclusion
With the 2025 MLS season approaching, teams are actively reshaping their rosters to compete at the highest level. The excitement surrounding new signings, particularly the record-breaking transfer of Leo Campana, sets the stage for a thrilling season ahead. Fans can look forward to a competitive landscape as clubs vie for supremacy in Major League Soccer.
Sources
- 2025 MLS Transfers: Tracking every club’s roster moves | MLSSoccer.com, MLSsoccer.com.
- New England acquire Leo Campana from Inter Miami in blockbuster trade | MLSSoccer.com, MLSsoccer.com.
- Houston Dynamo FC Kickoff Season 20 with Texas Derby on Feb. 22 and Will Host Inter Miami CF on March 2 | Houston Dynamo, Houston Dynamo FC.
- Vancouver Whitecaps face busy start to 2025 Major League Soccer schedule, The Hamilton Spectator.
