3 Things the MLS Needs to Consider Changing 

#2 Scheduling

If the MLS is serious about being a globally recognized league, the scheduling changes are necessary

In the past, this wasn't really an issue since little to no MLS players were being called up for national duty.

Nowadays, there are more players being called up from the MLS for national teams like Mexico, Panama, Honduras, and even Spain (David Villa got the call up once).

While these call-ups are a good sign for the progression of the league, without changing the schedule to meet FIFA windows will lead to future conflicts. The MLS regular season runs from March to October, followed by knockout stages lasting a further two months.

In contrast to much of world football, the MLS operates on a very different schedule. Majority of the leagues around the world follow the Fall-Spring schedule rather than the MLS model. This can lead to various logistical issues such as players not being given time off by their clubs in order to perform for their country.

If the MLS is serious about being a globally recognized league, the scheduling changes are necessary. Without aligning the schedule with FIFA's, players and coaches could be more hesitant in choosing the league as a viable option.

One of the most commonly used excuses for the lack of change in scheduling is the impact of winter in many areas of the USA.

While this is a fair concern, leagues around the world have shown that there is a way around the issue in the form of a winter break. The combination of a winter-break and modern technology should allow the MLS to implement changes.