With the 2022 MLS season in the books, all 29 clubs (hello, St. Louis CITY SC!) have begun making moves for next year and beyond by updating their squads.
Here's a club-by-club snapshot featuring all roster decisions following the 2022 campaign. Players who are staying, those who are going and others who have received new contract offers from their club are included.
NOV. 16 – At long last, all 28 clubs have announced their year-end roster update. Nashville SC were the final one to do so.
There weren't a ton of big decisions to work through for the club. Veteran midfielder Dax McCarty signed a new contract, keeping the leader at the club. They also officially executed the trade option for winger Jacob Shaffelburg from Toronto FC, though MLSsoccer.com reported that weeks ago. Shaffelburg signed a four-year contract.
Nashville also picked up Fafa Picault's contract option after acquiring him in a trade from Houston, which is news because it means there isn't (yet) a new contract. His deal expires after 2023.
Option declined (Nov. 16, 2022)
- Robert Castellanos (DEF)
- Irakoze Donasiyano (MID)
- Bryan Meredith (GK)
- Will Meyer (GK)
Contract expired (Nov. 16, 2022)
- Eric Miller (DEF)
NOV. 15 – The reigning MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield title holders have officially kicked off their offseason. There are some big names with their futures in question.
Ryan Hollingshead, Sebastien Ibeagha, Franco Escobar, Sebastian Mendez and Eddie Segura are all out of contract. Cristian Tello's contract option was declined. The Black & Gold remain in talks with all six players about new deals.
Hollingshead and Ibeagha both started MLS Cup, while Escobar, Segura and Mendez were three key squad members. Mendez could see a bigger role next year if he stays, given the likelihood that Jose Cifuentes is transferred abroad after the World Cup. Tello, the former Barcelona winger and LaLiga veteran, never really broke into the team after arriving late in the season.
The contract options for injured goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau and midfielders Kellyn Acosta and Latif Blessing were all picked up.
Option declined (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Cal Jennings (FWD)
- Danny Trejo (FWD)
- Tomás Romero (GK)
- Cristian Tello (FWD)
Contract expired (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Ryan Hollingshead (DEF)
- Sebastien Ibeagha (DEF)
- Franco Escobar (DEF)
- Sebastian Mendez (MID)
- Eddie Segura (DEF)
NOV. 15 – It's going to be a busy offseason for NYCFC.
Anton Tinnerholm has officially departed to rejoin Malmö, while fellow long-term stalwarts Alexander Callens and Sean Johnson are out of contract. NYCFC also noted the loan for playmaker Santi Rodriguez expires at the end of December and made no mention of a purchase option or future clarity, so he's not technically under contract for 2023 either.
We'll see what happens, but Callens and Johnson are eligible for free agency and will likely be two of the three most-coveted players on the market. Rodriguez's parent club is Uruguay's Montevideo City Torque, which is also owned by City Football Group, so that one should be a bit easier. Then again, maybe the player and club have decided he's ready for the next step. Rodriguez had 4g/13a in the regular season and then another four assists in the Audi 2022 MLS Cup Playoffs.
"Keeping a squad together in MLS is incredibly challenging, particularly when you have successful seasons as we have done, but we remain in discussions with all players who are out of contract about returning in 2023," sporting director David Lee said in a club statement.
The club declined the contract option for one-time reported $9 million transfer Matias Pellegrini, as well as one-time USYNT wonderkid Gedion Zelalem. NYCFC did pick up the 2023 contract option for club legend Maxi Moralez, who will enter his age-36 season.
There's a lot to watch for NYCFC this winter.
Option declined (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Vuk Latinovich (DEF)
- Matias Pellegrini (FWD)
- Gedion Zelalem (MID)
Contract expired (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Alexander Callens (DEF)
- Justin Haak (MID)
- Sean Johnson (GK)
- Anton Tinnerholm (DEF)
Loan expired (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Santi Rodriguez (FWD)
NOV. 15 – Keeping intact a roster that was on the precipice of a Supporters' Shield/MLS Cup double is the goal for the Philadelphia Union this offseason, highlighted quickly by their year-end roster decisions.
Only three players are currently out of contract, with the club in talks about two sticking around. Philadelphia declined the option on forward Cory Burke, but hope he returns on a new deal. Third-string goalkeeper Joe Bendik is out of contract and the Union are in talks about a new deal as well.
There will be change, of course. Soon homegrown midfielder Paxten Aaronson will depart for German Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt, per sources, while it's overwhelmingly expected that Best XI left back Kai Wagner is transferred out as well.
The Union will have a few changes to make, but all in all, the majority of their squad will be retained.
Option declined (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Cory Burke (FWD)
- Cole Turner (MID)
Contract expired (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Joe Bendik (GK)
NOV. 15 – Sporting Kansas City never recovered from a slow start to 2022, but ended the season in strong form and with momentum. Now, they officially kicked off their offseason with a roster update and, once again, a few key veterans are in limbo.
SKC declined the contract option for right back Graham Zusi, while center-mid Roger Espinoza and center back Andreu Fontas are out of contract. The club remains in talks with all three about potential returns.
Nicolas Isimat-Mirin will not be returning after his contract was declined, opening a need in central defense but also a decent amount of cap space to fill it.
Homegrown midfielder Felipe Hernandez, forward Khiry Shelton and goalkeeper Tim Melia have all signed new contracts. DP attackers Alan Pulido and Gadi Kinda will be back after both missed the entirety of the 2022 season as well.
Option declined (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Nicolas Isimat-Mirin (DEF)
- Kaveh Rad (DEF)
- Graham Zusi (DEF)
Contract expired (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Roger Espinoza (MID)
- Andreu Fontas (DEF)
NOV. 15 – FC Cincinnati's rebuild is way ahead of schedule after 2022 produced the fourth-year club’s first-ever Audi MLS Cup Playoffs appearance (and playoff victory). This winter, they opened up further flexibility to keep overturning the roster and improving.
Cincy declined options on eight players, including defenders Ronald Matarrita, Geoff Cameron and Tyler Blackett, plus midfielder Allan Cruz. The moves open significant salary cap space.
The big surprise in that group is Matarrita, who is on Costa Rica's World Cup squad. He has 135 MLS appearances between Cincy and NYCFC. He'll be among the most coveted free agents if no new deal with Cincy is reached before Wednesday.
Cincy indicated they're "in discussions with some players" about a return, but didn't specify who.
The Orange & Blue picked up options for midfielder Junior Moreno, wingback Alvaro Barreal and more. They have 23 players under contract, led by cornerstones Luciano Acosta, Brandon Vazquez, Brenner, Matt Miazga, Obinna Nwobodo and more.
Option declined (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Tyler Blackett (DEF)
- Zico Bailey (DEF)
- Geoff Cameron (DEF)
- Allan Cruz (MID)
- Ronald Matarrita (DEF)
- Nick Markanich (FWD)
- Ben Mines (MID)
- Beckham Sunderland (GK)
NOV. 15 – CF Montreal were among the league's most pleasant surprises in 2022, but they’re at a crossroads for 2023.
Attacking midfielder Djordje Mihailovic has played his final game for the club, joining Eredivisie side AZ Alkmaar in the winter. Rising midfield star Ismael Kone is almost definitely gone after playing for Canada at the World Cup.
Head coach Wilfried Nancy – a finalist for Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year honors – could leave too. And, with their announcement of contract updates, lone DP Victor Wanyama is out of contract.
The former Tottenham midfielder said a few months ago he would be leaving the club. As of yet, Wanyama doesn’t have a new deal in Montréal. If nothing changes, replacing those three players will be incredibly difficult.
Montréal’s seven contract options declined includes goalkeepers Sebastian Breza and James Pantemis. Ditto for forward Bjorn Johnsen, who was the club's second-highest-paid player but recorded just two goals in two seasons while struggling with injuries and form.
Montréal picked up contract options for numerous players, including 38-year-old forward Kei Kamara, who’s now third in all-time MLS goals and helped steer a second-place finish in the Eastern Conference. Honduras international forward Romell Quioto also had his option picked up.
Option declined (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Zorhan Bassong (DEF)
- Sebastian Breza (GK)
- Keesean Ferdinand (DEF)
- Tomas Giraldo (MID)
- Bjorn Johnsen (FWD)
- James Pantemis (GK)
- Karifa Yao (DEF)
Contract expired (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Victor Wanyama (MID)
Loan expired (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Gabriele Corbo (DEF)
NOV. 14 – Entering a new era under head coach Luchi Gonzalez, the San Jose Earthquakes continued to turn over their roster for the future on Monday. They now have just 21 players under contract.
San Jose declined options on six players, most notably homegrown Tommy Thompson and midfielder Jan Gregus. Key midfielders Judson and Eric Remedi are out of contract, while club legend Shea Salinas previously announced his retirement.
The club noted they are in conversations with "select players" who are out of contract or had their options declined, but didn't specify who.
The Quakes' roster is young heading into 2023 as they aim to make the playoffs for just the third time since 2012. Jeremy Ebobisse, Cristian Espinoza, Cade Cowell, Jamiro Monteiro, Jackson Yueill and JT Marcinkowski are among the core players at the moment, before further additions.
Option declined (Nov. 14, 2022)
- George Asomani (MID)
- Matt Bersano (GK)
- Gilbert Fuentes (MID)
- Jan Gregus (MID)
- Siad Haji (FWD)
- Tommy Thompson (DEF)
Contract expired (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Eric Remedi (MID)
- Judson (MID)
Retiring (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Shea Salinas (MID)
NOV. 14 – Minnesota United FC announced a rash of roster updates that leave their roster at just 20 players.
All in all, the Loons declined contract options on nine players, saw one contract expire and a further two loans (Jonathan Gonzalez, Joseph Rosales) expire. The club remains in talks with Gonzalez and Rosales, who respectively were at MNUFC from Liga MX’s Monterrey and Panama’s Independiente.
On the "option declined" front, former All-Star defender Romain Metanire and goalkeeper Tyler Miller are the biggest names. Metanire played just 22 minutes this season due to injuries, while Miller was relegated to the bench behind Canada World Cup selection Dayne St. Clair.
Minnesota are in talks with Miller and fellow goalkeeper Eric Dick about potential returns.
The Loons picked up contract options for three players, including veteran midfielder Wil Trapp. Key players Bakaye Dibassy, Emanuel Reynoso and Robin Lod received contract extensions during the season.
Minnesota are expected to be able to sign a DP this winter and should have some cap/roster flexibility as well, after another season of making the playoffs.
Option declined (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Abu Danladi (FWD)
- Jacori Hayes (MID)
- Niko Hansen (MID)
- Oniel Fisher (DEF)
- Nabilai Kibunguchy (DEF)
- Justin McMaster (FWD)
- Tyler Miller (GK)
- Romain Metanire (DEF)
- Callum Montgomery (DEF)
Contract expired (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Eric Dick (GK)
Loan expired (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Jonathan Gonzalez (MID)
- Joseph Rosales (MID)
NOV. 14 – After conducting talks with the player about his future, Vancouver Whitecaps FC have officially declined the contract option on club-record signing Lucas Cavallini. The move opens a DP spot for Vancouver.
Cavallini is currently with Canada preparing for the 2022 World Cup. His time in Vancouver didn't go as planned and he fell behind Brian White on the club's forward depth chart. The club can add a DP of any age/budget charge and preserve the use of all three U22 Initiative slots, as defensive midfielder Andres Cubas is below the max-TAM charge. Star playmaker Ryan Gauld is also a DP on the 'Caps roster.
Vancouver also declined the option on longtime defender Jake Nerwinski and others, bringing the roster to 23 players under contract.
The only option that was picked up was for center back Derek Cornelius, who is on loan with Greek Super League side Panetolikos FC. That loan expires at the end of December. Brazilian midfielder Caio Alexandre is also away from the club on loan, but his 2023 contract was already guaranteed.
Option declined (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Janio Bikel (MID)
- Lucas Cavallini (FWD)
- Cody Cropper (GK)
- David Egbo (FWD)
- Marcus Godinho (DEF)
- Jake Nerwinski (DEF)
- Evan Newton (GK)
- Leonard Owusu (MID)
- Tosaint Ricketts (FWD)
Out of contract (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Michael Baldisimo (MID)
- Florian Jungwirth (DEF)
NOV. 14 – Much of the LA Galaxy’s core is under contract and returning for 2023, but the club has some flexibility around the edges of its roster.
LA declined 2023 options on a handful of players, including midfielder Victor Vazquez and goalkeeper Jonathan Klinsmann, but they remain in talks about potential returns.
Veteran midfielder Sacha Kljestan, who is eighth all-time in MLS history for regular-season assists with 99, is out of contract and enters free agency. Left back Jorge Villafana, who missed all of 2022 with an injury, saw his option declined.
The option for star forward Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez automatically triggered due to performance-related bonuses, the player himself said earlier this year. Veteran defender Martin Caceres will also return. The Uruguayan international, currently with his country preparing for the World Cup, was a revelation after signing in the fall.
Option declined (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Jonathan Klinsmann (GK)
- Richard Sánchez (GK)
- Víctor Vázquez (MID)
- Eriq Zavaleta (DEF)
Out of contract (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Sacha Kljestan (MID)
NOV. 14 – After beginning their roster revolution under head coach Wayne Rooney in the summer, D.C. United further trimmed their roster this fall.
Nine players had contract options declined and another three are out of contract, including goalkeeper Bill Hamid and forward Ola Kamara. Hamid originally signed a homegrown deal with the club in 2009 and made his debut in 2010. Kamara had 35 goals with the club in little over three seasons in D.C.
Left back Brad Smith, who was acquired in a big trade from Seattle ahead of the 2022 season and suffered a long-term ACL injury over the summer, also had his contract option declined.
Goalkeeper David Ochoa is also out of contract, but reports a few weeks ago suggested the sides were close on a new deal. D.C. announced they are in conversations with "select players" about potential returns.
D.C. picked up the contract options for defenders Steven Birnbaum, Donovan Pines and Derrick Williams, as well as forward Miguel Berry. Williams was just acquired in a trade last week from the LA Galaxy. They have 24 players under contract for 2023.
Option declined (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Tony Alfaro (FWD)
- Sofiane Djeffal (MID)
- Sami Guediri (DEF)
- Jonathan Kempin (GK)
- Chris Odoi-Atsem (DEF)
- Adrien Perez (FWD)
- Brad Smith (DEF)
- Kimarni Smith (FWD)
- Drew Skundrich (MID)
Out of contract (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Bill Hamid (GK)
- Ola Kamara (FWD)
- David Ochoa (GK)
NOV. 14 – The biggest resolution of Atlanta United's offseason (the future of DP forward Josef Martinez) wasn't going to be sorted today, but the club established flexibility for change after a playoff-less season.
Atlanta declined three contract options and let two loans expire, while three more players are out of contract as the Five Stripes aim to return to their past heights.
Forward Ronaldo Cisneros and goalkeeper Raul Gudino, both signed during the year, will depart. Center back Juanjo Purata, also signed during the year due to an injury outbreak, will stick around, as the club extended his loan through 2023. Atlanta still hold a purchase option.
Atlanta picked up the contract option on veteran midfielder Ozzie Alonso, who tore his ACL early in the season. Atlanta also picked up the contract option for USMNT center back Miles Robinson and Brazilian midfielder Matheus Rossetto.
Martinez is under contract for 2023, but it has been reported he won't be back. The club could trade, transfer or buy out his deal at some point between now and mid-February.
“We had a conversation with Josef and his agents, we’ve spoken a couple times actually," technical director Carlos Bocanegra told media on Monday. "We had a really clear conversation, a really open conversation. What went on in those conversations, I hope you can respect that I’m not going to share that publicly. There’s no rift between everybody; everything is sporting decisions. We’ve had positive discussions. There’s nothing definitive at the moment.”
Among those who are leaving, Atlanta only noted they're in talks with midfielder Amar Sejdic about a potential return.
Option declined (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Dylan Castanheira (GK)
- Raúl Gudiño (GK)
- Bryce Washington (DEF)
Out of contract (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Mikey Ambrose (DEF)
- Alex De John (DEF)
- Amar Sejdic (MID)
Loan expired (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Ronaldo Cisneros (FWD)
- Rocco Ríos Novo (GK)
NOV. 14 – FC Dallas officially declined the 2023 contract option on Matt Hedges, the club's all-time appearance leader, after weeks of reporting talks regarding a new contract weren't close. The 32-year-old center back is now eligible for free agency.
Dallas noted they remain in talks with Hedges, but nothing has been reached and soon other MLS clubs can hold their own contract talks with him (free agency opens Nov. 16).
Elsewhere in defense, Dallas declined the purchase option on U22 Initiative center back Joshue Quinonez. He returns to Ecuadorian club Barcelona SC. The purchase option for right back Nanu, signed last winter on loan from Porto, was declined as well.
One defender who will be staying is left back Marco Farfan, who was acquired in a trade with LAFC for Ryan Hollingshead just before the season started. His contract option was picked up, as was homegrown midfielder Edwin Cerrillo's.
Dallas have 20 players currently under contract for 2023. The deal for DP forward Franco Jara expires in the summer.
Option declined (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Lucas Bartlett (DEF)
- Kalil ElMedkhar (FWD)
- Matt Hedges (DEF)
- Nicky Hernandez (MID)
- Eddie Munjoma (DEF)
- Nanu (DEF)
- Joshué Quiñónez (DEF)
- Beni Redžić (FWD)
- Thomas Roberts (MID)
NOV. 14 – Orlando City SC will be among MLS's busiest teams this winter. After announcing their year-end roster update, Orlando have just 20 players under contract for the 2023 season.
Let's start with who's staying: Orlando picked up the purchase option for Peru international Wilder Cartagena, who arrived on loan this summer from the United Arab Emirates league. They picked up the 2023 contract option for one-time US international Andres Perea as well. Both midfield players will be key after the departure of Junior Urso last week (and Sebastian Mendez's trade to LAFC in the summer), likely next to rising Uruguayan youth international Cesar Araujo.
Who's leaving? Well, a lot of regulars. Oft-injured and former Brazil international Alexandre Pato is out of contract, and the Lions made no note of being in discussions about a possible return. Nicholas Gioacchini, a forward with eight USMNT caps, was selected by St. Louis CITY SC in the Expansion Draft last Friday. Left back Joao Moutinho is out of contract and expected to leave, though the club extended a Bona Fide offer to him, meaning they get to keep his MLS rights. Ditto for homegrown forward Benji Michel.
There are some players not under contract who could return, namely goalkeeper Pedro Gallese and midfielder Mauricio Pereyra. Sources have described talks with both players as positive and Orlando hope to reach final agreements, but they cautioned nothing is done yet. Pererya would no longer be a DP if a deal gets done, giving the club further flexibility for additions this winter after adding two DPs last offseason (forwards Facundo Torres and Ercan Kara).
Keep an eye on Orlando this winter.
Option declined (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Tesho Akindele (FWD)
- Joey DeZart (MID)
Out of contract (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Adam Grinwis (GK)
- João Moutinho (DEF)
- Alexandre Pato (FWD)
- Mauricio Pereyra (MID)
Bona Fide offer extended (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Benji Michel (MID)
- Pedro Gallese (GK)
NOV. 10 – The Colorado Rapids have a few key decisions to make this offseason, with the futures of forward Gyasi Zardes and U22 Initiative defender Lucas Esteves still up in the air.
Zardes is out of contract. The former LA Galaxy homegrown striker joined in a trade from Columbus last April, and Colorado will send further allocation money to the Crew if he's re-signed by the Rapids. Esteves has spent a year and a half on loan from Brazil's Palmeiras and has been the first-choice left back after Sam Vines left for Belgium's Royal Antwerp. The loan for midfielder Felipe Gutierrez from Chile's Universidad Católica expired as well.
The Rapids declined contract options on a few players, including defenders Steven Beitashour and Michael Edwards.
Colorado have until Dec. 1 to decide on Esteves' purchase option and remain in discussions with Zardes, Gutierrez, Beitashour and Edwards over potential returns for 2023.
Option declined (Nov. 10, 2022)
- Steven Beitashour (DEF)
- Michael Edwards (DEF)
- Philip Mayaka (MID)
Loan expired (Nov. 10, 2022)
- Lucas Esteves (DEF)
- Felipe Gutierrez (MID)
Out of contract (Nov. 10, 2022)
- Clint Irwin (GK)
- Gyasi Zardes (FWD)
NOV. 7 – After a run to the Western Conference Final, Austin FC have officially kicked off their offseason. They have some flexibility for change this winter.
Austin declined contract options on five players, including first Expansion Draft selection Danny Hoesen and veteran midfielder Felipe Martins. The club added they're in discussions with numerous players about potential returns, but didn't specify exactly who.
Austin also declined to pick up the purchase option for on-loan Ecuador international winger Washington Corozo, who played just 48 minutes after arriving from Peru's Sporting Cristal.
Additionally, winger Jared Stroud has been traded to St. Louis CITY SC before their expansion season.
The moves leave Austin with just 20 players under contract for 2023, led by core players like Sebastian Driussi, Brad Stuver, Alex Ring, Diego Fagundez and more.
Option declined (Nov. 7, 2022)
- Danny Hoesen (FWD)
- Freddy Kleemann (DEF)
- Felipe Martins (MID)
- Will Pulisic (GK)
- Andrew Tarbell (GK)
Loan expired (Nov. 7, 2022)
- Washington Corozo (FWD)
Out of contract (Nov. 7, 2022)
- Hector Jimenez (DEF)
NOV. 7 – Heading into another new era this offseason, Houston will soon officially welcome their new head coach (Ben Olsen). They're leaving some of their biggest roster decisions for discussions with Olsen.
The Dynamo will take the next week to decide on the futures of forward Fafa Picault, fullback Zeca and midfielders Memo Rodriguez and Darwin Quintero. They (and all MLS teams) have until Nov. 14 to make those decisions.
UPDATE: Houston traded Fafa Picault to Nashville and then declined options on Zeca, Rodriguez and Quintero.
Houston's update did come with news, as options were picked up for forward Corey Baird, defender Ethan Bartlow and others. Failed U22 Initiative signings Mateo Bajamich and Thiago – two forwards from South America – were among five players who had contract options declined.
Both midfielder Darwin Ceren and defender Sam Junqua are out of contract. The Dynamo have made an offer to Junqua. Houston currently have 20 players under contract for 2023.
Option declined (Nov. 7, 2022)
- Mateo Bajamich (FWD)
- Ian Hoffmann (DEF)
- Marcelo Palomino (MID)
- Thiago (FWD)
- Zarek Valentin (DEF)
Option decisions ultimately declined (Nov. 16, 2022)
- Darwin Quintero (FWD)
- Memo Rodriguez (MID)
- Zeca (DEF)
Out of contract (Nov. 7, 2022)
- Darwin Ceren (MID)
- Sam Junqua (DEF)
NOV. 7 – The big question from Inter Miami CF's year-end roster decisions is the future of DP midfielder Alejandro Pozuelo. The 2020 MLS MVP is out of contract and no deal has been reached yet.
A source says both sides are holding talks about a new deal, but nothing is close as of writing. Rodolfo Pizarro's future plays into the equation, though the midfielder, on loan at Liga MX's CF Monterrey, is expected to leave (and with it, opening a DP spot for Pozuelo).
Miami also officially exercised the option on striker Leonardo Campana, as first reported by MLSsoccer.com. Campana is expected to hit the roster as a Young DP next season after being a U22 Initiative player while on loan from Wolves. The club also picked up options on the likes of winger Ariel Lassiter, midfielder Bryce Duke and goalkeeper Drake Callender, who finished third in 2022 Allstate MLS Goalkeeper of the Year voting.
“The club is proud to have built a roster that was able to attain many achievements this year, to have taken a step in the right direction and to continue building on the foundation that will allow us to strive for continued success,” CSO and sporting director Chris Henderson said in a release.
Gonzalo Higuain already announced his retirement, so the club declined the striker's contract option.
Option declined (Nov. 7, 2022)
- George Acosta (MID)
- Gonzalo Higuain (FWD)
Out of contract (Nov. 7, 2022)
- Joevin Jones (DEF)
- Alejandro Pozuelo (MID)
- Brek Shea (DEF)
- Indiana Vassilev (FWD)
OCT. 31 – Ahead of 2023, there wasn't a ton for Chicago Fire FC to decide in their roster update. Just five players either have a contract option or are out of contract, and three are set to depart the club.
Former USMNT defender Jonathan Bornstein is out of contract and is eligible for free agency. Meanwhile, Chicago picked up the option on center backs Kendall Burks and Wyatt Omsberg.
“As a technical staff we felt that these moves were necessary as we continue to prepare for the 2023 season," sporting director Georg Heitz said in a club statement. “We’d like to thank Andre \[Reynolds II\], Boris \[Sekulic\] and Jonny for their years of service to the club and wish them all the best for the future.”
Chicago's biggest offseason decision will be how they fill their final Designated Player spot, which opened up after agreeing to a new deal with Gaston Gimenez to move him off that roster classification. The Fire have Xherdan Shaqiri and Jairo Torres as their two current DPs, plus Jhon Duran and Federico Navarro as U22 Initiative signings.
Option declined (Oct. 31, 2022)
- Andre Reynolds II (DEF)
Out of contract (Oct. 31, 2022)
- Jonathan Bornstein (DEF)
- Boris Sekulic (DEF)
OCT. 27 – The New York Red Bulls face a few key decisions to make at the beginning of the offseason, before getting into potential additions.
With Aaron Long out of contract and testing free agency, they may lose their captain and former MLS Defender of the Year. A few others saw their loans expire and may not return.
Caden Clark will return to Germany's RB Leipzig, though is set to go out on loan to a different European club. He won't be back with the Red Bulls. Kyle Duncan's loan from Belgium's Oostende expired too, though there are talks about a potential return in 2023.
The loan for Brazilian forward Elias Manoel expired as well, but the club is already in discussions with Gremio about a permanent deal for the 20-year-old, although the club tweeted a "thank you" graphic to announce his departure. That doesn't mean he definitively won't be back, but the Red Bulls didn't pick up the purchase option as part of the loan as they hope to lower the price. Manoel quickly won the starting center forward job and impressed in limited minutes after joining in August.
"Let's see if we come to an agreement with Grêmio, we still have time to find an agreement with them," head of sport Jochen Schneider said in a media availability. "I can't predict at the moment if we will find a solution or not, so we just have to wait and be a little bit patient."
On Duncan's future, Schneider added "we have not made a decision yet if we will try to bring him back to Red Bull Arena."
The Red Bulls picked up options on nine players, including starting midfielder Cristian Casseres Jr. It's likely more transfer offers arrive for Casseres this winter after the club rejected a few bids this summer. Bids are expected to arrive for starting left back John Tolkin as well, but Schneider said "we don't plan" for major sales.
RBNY's roster stands at 24 players as they get stuck into offseason dealings.
Option declined (Oct. 27, 2022)
- Jesús Castellano (MID)
- Zach Ryan (FWD)
- Omar Sowe (FWD)
Out of contract (Oct. 27, 2022)
- Aaron Long (DEF)
Loan expired (Oct. 27, 2022)
- Caden Clark (MID)
- Kyle Duncan (DEF)
- Elias Manoel (FWD)
OCT. 26 – Real Salt Lake have 26 players under contract for 2023 after announcing their end-of-season roster update. There might be a few more from last year's team back as well.
Former USMNT forward Bobby Wood saw his contract option declined. He had only 5g/2a in 31 appearances over two seasons with RSL. Center back Marcelo Silva is out of contract, and Sergio Cordova's loan expired, but the club is in talks about both returning.
Cordova, who was on loan from Bundesliga side FC Augsburg, is expected to be back on a permanent deal, sources say, but nothing is done yet. Depending on the transfer fee, there may be some flexibility in terms of whether or not he occupies a DP slot, if it gets done.
RSL have a ton of flexibility at the top of their roster, with only Jefferson Savarino definitely taking up a DP spot in 2023. Damir Kreilach – who is expected to be back to 100% fitness by preseason after missing most of 2022 (lower back surgery) – can be bought down. They can use up to three U22 Initiative slots, pending designations as well.
Big offseason for RSL, who made the playoffs once again in 2022.
Option declined (Oct. 26, 2022)
- Nick Besler (MID)
- Chris Garcia (FWD)
- Bret Halsey (MID)
- Johan Kappelhof (DEF)
- Tate Schmitt (DEF)
- Bobby Wood (FWD)
In discussions about possible return (Oct. 26, 2022)
- Sergio Cordova (FWD)
- Tomas Gomez (GK)
- Marcelo Silva (DEF)
OCT. 26 – Evolving into a new era with an active head coach search, the Columbus Crew announced their end-of-season roster decisions. Some familiar faces might not be coming back.
Columbus declined the contract option on longtime winger-turned-fullback Pedro Santos, while winger Derrick Etienne Jr. is out of contract. Etienne is eligible for free agency and is likely to draw plenty of interest from other clubs.
The Crew noted they remain in discussions with some players about potential returns, though didn't specify which ones.
Columbus picked up options for key players like Darlington Nagbe, Jonathan Mensah, Steven Moreira and Artur – while stars Lucas Zelarayan and Cucho Hernandez were under contract – keeping the core intact heading into 2023.
“We have a talented group of players on this roster who can contribute as we build towards a successful 2023 season,” Crew president & general manager Tim Bezbatchenko said in a club statement. “As we continue the search for our next head coach, we believe we have a solid core and a good blend of players for the incoming coaching staff to work with, from the veteran leaders who have experience winning championships, and talented young players who have shown this season that they can make a difference on the field."
Longtime MLSer Perry Kitchen announced his retirement from the game as well. U22 Initiative winger Alexandru Matan is on loan at Romania's Rapid Bucuresti, who have a purchase option as part of the deal. His future will be decided later this winter.
Option declined (Oct. 26, 2022)
- Jalil Anibaba (DEF)
- Erik Hurtado (FWD)
- James Igbekeme (MID)
- Pedro Santos (DEF)
Out of contract (Oct. 26, 2022)
- Derrick Etienne Jr. (MID)
- Marlon Hairston (DEF)
Retiring (Oct. 26, 2022)
- Perry Kitchen (MID)
OCT. 25 – Starting the offseason much earlier than usual, the Seattle Sounders announced their roster update after missing the playoffs for the first time in club history (after a league-record 13 straight trips). The reigning Concacaf Champions League winners still have a strong core intact, but have a little flexibility for roster evolution this winter, with 23 players under contract for next year.
To headline departures, the Sounders declined the option for veteran forward Will Bruin and Jimmy Medranda is out of contract. They picked up contract options on homegrown midfielders Josh Atencio and Danny Leyva, as well as star winger Jordan Morris.
Morris is entering the final year of his contract in 2023, ditto for standout midfielder Cristian Roldan. There are no options for either USMNT player past 2023. That's something to watch this winter and beyond.
All-time club leading scorer Fredy Montero is out of contract, but the Sounders are in talks about a potential return as well.
“2022 will be remembered as the year Sounders FC cemented itself in the history books by winning the 2022 Concacaf Champions League title,” general manager & president of soccer Garth Lagerwey said in a club statement. “That does not take away the disappointment of missing the postseason for the first time in club history, and we are already amidst preparations to bounce back in 2023."
Option declined (Oct. 25, 2022)
- Will Bruin (FWD)
- Alfonso Ocampo-Chavez (FWD)
Out of contract (Oct. 25, 2022)
- Jimmy Medranda (MID)
In discussions about possible return (Oct. 25, 2022)
- Fredy Montero (FWD)
OCT. 17 – After an encouraging expansion season, Charlotte have officially kicked off their offseason calendar for year two with their roster update. There weren't many surprises or huge decisions.
Contract options for McKinze Gaines, Derrick Jones, George Marks and Daniel Rios were all picked up, while veteran defenders Harrison Afful and Christian Fuchs had options declined. Charlotte remain in talks about potential returns on new deals for each player, though.
The loan for Ecuadorian midfielder Alan Franco has expired and he will return to Brazil's Atletico Mineiro.
Charlotte can still open a DP spot this winter by buying down the budget charge of Jordy Alcivar, and they have a U22 Initiative slot available as well. Interim head coach Christian Lattanzio is all but certain to be named the full-time head coach.
Options declined, but in talks about potential return (Oct. 17, 2022)
- Harrison Afful (DEF)
- Christian Fuchs (DEF)
Option decisions ultimately declined (Nov. 14, 2022)
- Quinn McNeill (MID)
- Koa Santos (DEF)
Loan expired (Oct. 17, 2022)
- Alan Franco (MID)
OCT. 17 – After two years on loan in Portland, defender Josecarlos Van Rankin will return to Liga MX's Chivas. The veteran right back made 57 regular-season appearances in MLS.
It was a low-key announcement for the Timbers, with Van Rankin the most-utilized player that came up in contract options. Portland picked up the contract options on Diego Gutierrez, Zac McGraw and Justin Rasmussen, while declining options for Blake Bodily, George Fochive and Justin Vom Steeg.
The Timbers are at a crossroads this offseason, on and off the field. The roster update is just the first of what should be a busy winter, with an open DP spot, questions about Eryk Williamson's future and much more.
Portland missed the playoffs for the first time under head coach Gio Savarese. The club had been to two MLS Cup finals in the last four years, losing both times.
Options declined (Oct. 17, 2022)
- Blake Bodily (MID)
- George Fochive (MID)
- Justin Vom Steeg (GK)
Purchase option declined (Oct. 17, 2022)
- Josecarlos Van Rankin (DEF)
In talks about potential return (Oct. 17, 2022)
- Nathan Fogaca (FWD)
OCT. 14 – Toronto FC have 21 players who are contractually guaranteed for the 2023 season, a pivotal second year under head coach and sporting director Bob Bradley.
As they continue a complete rebuild, Toronto created plenty more room for additions. They declined the option on defender Chris Mavinga, all while Jonathan Osorio, Alex Bono, Quentin Westberg and more are out of contract. The Reds noted Mavinga and Osorio are in talks for new deals to potentially return.
Nashville SC are expected to exercise a permanent transfer for 2023 on winger Jacob Shaffelburg (currently away on loan). Versatile fullback Auro Jr. is on loan with Brazilian side Santos, and Toronto have until the MLS deadline of November 14 to exercise or decline his 2023 contract option. TFC also may make Richie Laryea's return a permanent move, as he's currently only on loan from Nottingham Forest through June 2023.
Toronto have a DP spot open alongside Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi. Bradley noted there'll be additions at goalkeeper, defense and perhaps center forward. With a core starting with those DPs, Michael Bradley, Mark-Anthony Kaye and Domenico Criscito, plus a bit more roster flexibility, Toronto are in a good spot heading toward 2023.
Options declined (Oct. 14, 2022)
- Ifunanyachi Achara (FWD)
- Chris Mavinga (DEF)
Out of contract (Oct. 14, 2022)
- Alex Bono (GK)
- Doneil Henry (DEF)
- Noble Okello (MID)
- Jonathan Osorio (MID)
- Quentin Westberg (GK)
Option decisions to be determined (Oct. 14, 2022)
- Auro Jr. (DEF)
OCT. 13 – From Supporters' Shield winners (and record-setters!) to missing the playoffs, the New England Revolution officially got the offseason started by being the first club to announce their end-of-season roster decisions. They've started to clear some room for change this winter.
The Revs declined options on four players: Emmanuel Boateng, Clément Diop, Wilfrid Kaptoum and Edward Kizza. At some point over the next month the club also will decide on the option for Ismael Tajouri-Shradi, who arrived in a midseason trade from LAFC, but never made his New England debut due to injury. That injury is why the club hasn't made a decision on his option.
"He's been in Germany for three weeks rehabbing an injury," Arena told media on Thursday. " ... It's yet to be determined for his status next year. I'll be meeting with his agent next week to discuss his future. We think the world of him. He's a really good guy, and I'm hopeful that he gets healthy."
Though Arena said the injury could potentially be career-ending, Tajouri-Shradi told MLSsoccer.com he'll recover completely and will be training in the next few weeks.
UPDATE: New England declined Tajouri-Shradi's contract option on Nov. 15.
The moves free up some flexibility for additions. Arena said the Revs are looking to add "three or four players", including a striker, central midfielder and defensive additions. Jozy Altidore is a player who is also under contract while on loan at Liga MX's Puebla, but Arena suggested he might not be at the club again in 2023.
"We will have continued discussions with his agent," Arena said. "I know he has an interest in perhaps going elsewhere and we'll work with him to see if that's possible.”
Arena has also previously said they want to bring back midfielder Nacho Gil, though he's currently out of contract. New England exercised options for nine players, including Henry Kessler. Core members of the squad like 2021 Landon Donovan MLS MVP Carles Gil, breakout goalkeeper Djordje Petrović and Brandon Bye were already under contract for next season.
Expect the Revs to have a busy offseason.
Contract options declined (Oct. 13, 2022)
- Emmanuel Boateng (MID)
- Clément Diop (GK)
- Wilfrid Kaptoum (MID)
- Edward Kizza (FWD)
Option decision ultimately declined (Nov. 15, 2022)
- Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (FWD)
Out of contract (Oct. 13, 2022)
- A.J. DeLaGarza (DEF)
- Nacho Gil (MID)
- Brad Knighton (GK)
