MLS Are Adjusting Their Roster Regulations Following The Sensational Transfer Of Lionel Messi

The MLS board of governors recently approved a set of changes that grant teams greater flexibility in roster building. The primary amendments involve relaxing the maximum limit on the total number of Designated Players and Under-22 Initiative signings that a team is allowed. 

The league has also decided to allow clubs to perform up to two contract buyouts per season; this has doubled from a single one performed per season to ensure teams do not suffer from roster-building mistakes. 

There is also a massive hike in the General Allocation Money that teams can receive from player sales to teams overseas, with the allowable total amount now capped at $3 million, increased from the previous $1 million. Teams such as Inter Miami, who engage in player sales frequently, will benefit from this amendment. 

The discussions around the proposed “legends rule,” which would have allowed teams to pay long-serving players from small budgets less than the DP cap, did not make it into the final rule set. 

All these changes come at a critical time for MLS as the league looks to increase the quality of its players ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. will host alongside Canada and Mexico. 

Messi’s stream to the American League playing for Inter Miami with a contract up to 2025 has called for teams to invest more in player quality than before. The proposed rule changes will be made into effect after approval from the MLSPA in the summer transfer window of July 18.

The limit enhancements to DPs and U-22 player signings will enable pro-spending teams such as Inter Miami. GAM increases from transfers will benefit teams that participate heavily in global transfers.