MLSPA, MLS Announce New Collective Bargaining Agreement

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Major League Soccer Players Association and Major League Soccer announced terms of a new collective bargaining agreement or CBA that runs for five seasons.

The agreement was announced on Thursday, February 6.

Once formally approved by the MLS Board of Governors and MLSPA membership, the new deal will run through the 2024 season.

“As we prepare to celebrate our 25th season, we are very pleased to finalize a new five-year Collective Bargaining Agreement with our players,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber in a statement. “This agreement addresses key strategic priorities for the league and our players while also retaining the basic player compensation structure that has been the foundation for the growth and stability of Major League Soccer. We had constructive, positive discussions with the leadership of the MLSPA and the players’ bargaining committee during the negotiations over the last few months and I would like to thank them for their collaboration in concluding an agreement that will serve as the foundation for a new era of partnership with our players.”

NEWS: The MLSPA and MLS have reached a tentative agreement on a new five-year collective bargaining agreement. Details to follow. MORE: https://t.co/BitFpmvPTh pic.twitter.com/WTaW7hWcOe

— MLSPA (@MLSPA) February 6, 2020

There are seven pillars from the new CBA that were highlighted by the MLS in its press release:

• Increased investment in player spending
• Greater salary budget flexibility across rosters
• Players to share in media revenue
• Increase in charter flights
• Expanded free agency
• New “Under-22” Player initiative
• Designated Player spots

The CBA announcement was announced 24 days prior to the start of the upcoming 2020 MLS season opener. The new season begins on Saturday, February 29 when the Colorado Rapids host D.C. United.

Real Salt Lake kicks off its 2020 campaign against Orlando City SC on Saturday, February 29 at 4 p.m. (MDT).