The 2026 MLS season resumes on Thursday, with the league cleverly scheduling its return between the World Cup semi-finals and third-place match. More than half of the regular season remains, and the Leagues Cup will further congest the calendar. During the six-week pause, 44 players left their MLS clubs to represent their nations at the World Cup.
Son Heung-min's lack of goals for South Korea contributed to their group-stage exit. The former Tottenham star managed only one shot on target from seven attempts. For Los Angeles FC, he has failed to score in 13 league appearances this season, with 19 of his 39 shots taken from outside the box. His eight assists have kept LAFC near the top of the Western Conference, but they need to get him closer to goal.
Sebastian Berhalter impressed for the United States, often the first substitute off the bench. The London-born midfielder is a key figure for the Vancouver Whitecaps, acting as a possession hub and set-piece taker. His contract expires in December, and with Vancouver's future uncertain, he may attract interest from other MLS clubs or abroad.
Orlando City had three players feature for knockout-stage nations, yet they struggled before the break, sitting 12th in the East with a minus-21 goal difference. However, they are only four points from a playoff spot and should improve with Antoine Griezmann joining. Maxime Crépeau emerged as Canada's starting goalkeeper, and Marco Pasalic contributed 12 goals and five assists in the 2025 MLS season.
Miguel Almirón had a turbulent World Cup, receiving a yellow card for a mistaken identity flop and a red card that became a viral anthem. He returned to start in Paraguay's upset of Germany. Back at Atlanta United, the club hopes he can rediscover his goal-scoring form to help them climb the standings.
Petar Musa earned a starting role for Croatia and will look to carry that momentum into his MLS campaign. Other players to watch include Braian Ojeda, Matías Galarza, and Andrés Cubas, who all return to their clubs after strong World Cup performances.
