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MLS Narrows Down Commissioner Candidates

ESPN Soccer •
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Major League Soccer has reportedly narrowed its search for a new commissioner to three finalists to replace Don Garber, who has led the league since 1999. The leading candidates are Larry Berg, LAFC co-owner; Paraag Marathe, 49ers Enterprises president; and David Nathanson, former Fox executive. All three are expected to attend the MLS All-Star Game on July 29, though no announcement is anticipated then.

Garber, 68, has overseen significant growth, expanding MLS from 12 to 30 teams with average valuations now reaching $731 million. The league is working with search firm Korn Ferry on the succession plan, with Garber's contract set to expire at the end of 2027. This timing is complicated by the league's shift to a summer/spring season.

The new commissioner will inherit substantial challenges, including renegotiating the TV deal with Apple, which expires in 2029, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement with the MLS Players Association, due in early 2028.