I am not sure if the league needs star players as much as it needs an overall quality play at least on a level comparable with the ColaShip and/or Bundesliga 2. You don't need superstars to get to that level, but a few solid contributors who would be comparable to the rank-n-file in those leagues - if they get them for bargain deals, so much the better - and coaching that would allow that extra quality to shine.
For the most part I agree with this article...but I think that we should also focus on attracting young international talent and turning them INTO world superstars. I'm hoping that in a few years, as our leage continues to grow and salaries start to really increase, that we will start becoming a serious destination for top Brazilian and Argentinian talent. Most Brazilians are either going to Europe or going to Japan. We need to compete better with Japan to get those young Brazilian players, IMO.
I like the article and how he expects Chivas to be good for the Galaxy by spurring them on to play better and not get beaten by their in town rival. Could turn out to be a Barcelona vs Real Madrid thing where in addition to wanting to be on top of the league, each team tries to make sure they are better than the other. This league needs some fire like that.
So I interperted this as they were trying to make MLS like the rest of the soccer world. For example one thing they are starting to change is team names, in 2005 we'll have FC Dallas 96, CD Chivas USA, and Real Salt Lake. Those 3 are "traditional" soccer names unlike say the Colorado Rapids or Kansas City Wizards. Do you think the league will ever turn into a single table? Lose the draft? Or anything else like that?
I hope they never get rid of the draft. The draft is a good system for bringing in new talent on a yearly basis for all the teams to choose from. I wish the MLS HQ would sign more experienced players from over seas and allow them to be draft eligible as well. The draft is something that is uniquely american but doesn't effect how the game is played. Drafts are also becoming media events as well. The more stuff to cover the better.
I don't mind the name changes, but I'd prefer MLS doesn't go single table and I hope that the postseason is never cancelled! I don't care if it isn't 'traditional' it makes American sports special, and the MLS different from other soccer leagues.
This is teh funny. Player drafts are a construct created by team owners to discourage teams from competing with each other in yet another area. Drafts are about one thing creating disincentives for teams to develop their own talent thus saving money. The draft needs to go.