Don Garber's MLS forecast, built on pieces like Cavan Sullivan: 'Among most competitive leagues in world'

Outgoing MLS commissioner Don Garber highlights young talents like Cavan Sullivan as evidence the league is rising toward global elite status.

Stepping down after 27 years, Don Garber has expressed confidence in MLS's future, pointing to a wave of emerging young talent as proof the league is establishing itself among the world's best. Cavan Sullivan, who recently left Philadelphia Union, was among the standout performers in recent USMNT friendlies, scoring twice. The league now has five players named among The Guardian's 60 best young talents globally—more than the Bundesliga—including Real Salt Lake's Van Parker, Toronto FC's Jahmarie Nolan, and New York Red Bulls' Caleb Simmons. Garber, whose tenure concludes at year's end, believes these prospects signal a shift away from MLS's old reputation as a retirement league toward a genuine destination for elite young footballers.