Major League Soccer returns this weekend with its 30th anniversary season, featuring Lionel Messi's Inter Miami as defending champions. The 2026 campaign will pause for the FIFA World Cup, adding extra significance to every match. ESPN's team-by-team preview examines how each club has prepared during the offseason.

Atlanta United has appointed Tata Martino for his second stint as manager, hoping to reverse last season's 29th-place finish. The Five Stripes have added young Argentine talent including center back Tomás Jacob and left back Elías Baez, plus veteran Fafà Picault. Austin FC made a major splash by signing Facundo Torres from Palmeiras on a Designated Player contract through 2030, betting big on offensive improvement after scoring only 37 goals last season.

Charlotte FC quietly bolstered its roster with USMNT midfielder Luca De la Torre, who joins after a productive season with San Diego. The Crown aim to advance past the first playoff round after three consecutive early exits. Chicago Fire, under former USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter, unveiled plans for a new 22,000-capacity stadium while adding players like Robin Lod and Josh Cohen. With Messi chasing his 900th career goal and potentially 1,000, the 2026 season promises heightened drama across all 30 clubs.