COLUMBUS, Ohio – The MLS season will begin on Friday as scheduled now that Major League Soccer and its players’ union have agreed in principle to a five-year labor contract, averting a possible strike.
“This is great news for soccer fans across North America. We are excited to start the season and are grateful for the hard work put in by both parties in their efforts to reach an agreement,” Columbus Crew SC sporting director and head coach Gregg Berhalter said.
“We are pleased to have reached a new five year collective bargaining agreement with the League. The players are excited to turn our focus back to the field,” said the club representative to the MLS Players Union, Ethan Finlay.
MLS’s 20th season begins this weekend, with the defending champion Los Angeles Galaxy hosting Chicago in the opener.
Crew SC begins its 20th season on March 7 at Houston and returns home to MAPFRE Stadium for the home opener Saturday, March 14 against Toronto FC at 7:30 p.m.