With the eyes of the global soccer community fixed on North America ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Major League Soccer is looking to secure its next era of dominance. During a recent media briefing, MLS Commissioner Don Garber confirmed that the league is closely monitoring the situation of Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah. As the Egyptian forward enters the final months of his current deal in England, Garber made it clear that a Mohamed Salah MLS move is a top priority for the league's continued expansion.
Don Garber's Vision for Mohamed Salah in MLS
As the league prepares for a historic summer, Don Garber did not hold back when asked about the possibility of bringing one of the Premier League's greatest ever players to the United States. "I would love to have Mo Salah in Major League Soccer," Garber stated. The commissioner emphasized that Salah's profile as a global icon aligns perfectly with the league's trajectory following the massive success of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup held on American soil.
The Egyptian King's Global Appeal
For MLS, the pursuit of Salah is about more than just on-field production. The 33-year-old forward remains one of the most recognizable athletes on the planet, boasting a massive following across the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Garber noted that while the league office remains neutral regarding which specific club Salah might join, the collective goal is to ensure that players of his caliber see MLS as a primary destination rather than a secondary option.
"We want to be a league of choice," Garber added. "When you look at the impact Mohamed Salah has had on the global game, he is exactly the type of 'difference-maker' that can help us reach the next level of international relevance. His presence would be a game-changer for our broadcast partners and our growing fanbase."
The Liverpool Contract Situation in 2026
The timing of these comments is critical. We are currently in March 2026, and Mohamed Salah is now 33 years old and in the final months of his contract with Liverpool, which is set to expire in June 2026. After nearly a decade of shattering records at Anfield, the question of whether the "Egyptian King" will seek a new challenge has become the focal point of the global transfer market.
Final Months at Anfield
Despite being in his mid-30s, Salah has shown incredible longevity, remaining a top-tier contributor for the Reds. However, with no contract extension signed as of late March, the possibility of a free transfer this summer is looming large. While the Saudi Pro League has remained a persistent suitor, the allure of the North American market—especially with the 2026 World Cup kicking off in June—presents a unique opportunity for Salah to expand his brand in the Western Hemisphere.
Building Momentum After the 2025 Club World Cup
The interest in Salah comes on the heels of a transformative year for soccer in the United States. The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup proved to be a massive success, showcasing that American infrastructure and fan appetite are ready for a 32-team global elite tournament. Major League Soccer is eager to capitalize on that momentum by securing another marquee signing to follow the path blazed by Lionel Messi.
- Post-Tournament Growth: The 2025 tournament saw record-breaking attendance for matches involving MLS sides against European giants.
- Commercial Infrastructure: New sponsorship deals and the Apple TV partnership have provided the financial backing necessary for high-profile acquisitions.
- Strategic Timing: Signing Salah just as his contract ends in June 2026 would coincide perfectly with the start of the World Cup.
The 2026 World Cup and the Future of MLS
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches this June, the landscape of North American soccer is at an all-time high. Don Garber understands that the window to capture the world's attention is now. By bringing in Mohamed Salah, the league would not only be adding a perennial Golden Boot contender but also a cultural ambassador who can bridge the gap between North American soccer and the global Arabic-speaking community.
"Our goal has always been to be one of the top leagues in the world by the time the World Cup arrives on our shores," Garber concluded. "Having a player like Mo Salah competing in our stadiums during that time would be a statement of intent that few other leagues could match."
As the June 2026 deadline approaches, the soccer world will be watching closely to see if the Egyptian King decides to trade the Mersey for the Hudson, the Los Angeles coastline, or the heat of Miami. One thing is certain: Don Garber and MLS have the door wide open.
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