As the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season unfolds, significant player transfers have made headlines, particularly for clubs like FC Cincinnati, Atlanta United, and LA Galaxy. Each team made strategic moves during the winter transfer window, leveraging the new cash-for-player transfer tool introduced by the league. These investments are beginning to bear fruit, as evidenced by standout performances in the early matches of the season.
FC Cincinnati generated buzz in the league when they sold Luciano Acosta to FC Dallas, subsequently bringing in Brazilian playmaker Evander. Initially, it took Evander some time to find his footing in MLS, but he made a notable impact on Matchday 5, scoring twice in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Atlanta United. This performance marked a turning point for him, as he now boasts an impressive tally of 38 goal contributions since the beginning of the 2024 season, with 18 goals and 20 assists. Remarkably, he is just one goal contribution behind Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, who leads the league with 39.
Atlanta United has also seen a bright start to their season, thanks in large part to Emmanuel Latte Lath, who has emerged as a key player. After joining the club for a hefty $22 million, the Cote d'Ivoire striker has made his presence felt, scoring four goals in his first five games. Latte Lath's latest goal came against Cincinnati, making him the third player in Atlanta history to achieve such a feat, following in the footsteps of club legends Josef Martínez and Ronaldo Cizneros, both of whom also scored six goals in their respective starts.
Meanwhile, LA Galaxy's Christian Ramirez has been making strides since his transfer from Columbus Crew. Returning to his hometown club, Ramirez scored his first goal for the Galaxy in a Concacaf Champions Cup match against CS Herediano. He followed that up with his first MLS goal during a 1-1 draw with the Portland Timbers and another in a 2-2 draw against Minnesota United on Matchday 5. His resurgence is vital for the Galaxy as they navigate a challenging season without key players like Riqui Puig and Joseph Paintsil due to injury.
In addition to these standout players, FC Cincinnati welcomed back Nick Hagglund, who made his 2025 debut in the match against Atlanta. This was Hagglund's first appearance since June 22, 2024, after undergoing reconstructive ligament surgery on his ankle. Despite being the fifth-choice center back when the team is at full strength, Hagglund's leadership and experience were invaluable in a match where he had to mark the league's most expensive signing, Latte Lath.
Hagglund’s return was met with enthusiasm, as he is not only a veteran presence but also the lone holdover from Cincinnati's inaugural MLS team in 2019. His commitment to the club remains strong, as he recently signed a new contract extending through 2027. “I’m really thankful for the club and really thankful for the opportunity to be back,” he said, reflecting on his journey back to the pitch.
As for FC Cincinnati's overall performance, the team has had a rocky start to the season. With only 7 points from 5 matches (2 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw), the team’s early results are a slight dip compared to previous seasons. In 2024, Cincinnati garnered 11 points from their first five matches, while the 2023 season saw the same total. The club's challenging start this year has raised eyebrows, but it's not entirely bleak, as they continue to adjust and find their rhythm.
Despite missing several key players due to international duty during Matchday 5, including Miguel Almiron, Atlanta United has shown resilience. The club's head coach, Ronny Deila, faces challenges ahead, but the early successes of players like Latte Lath provide a solid foundation to build upon.
As the season progresses, all three clubs—FC Cincinnati, Atlanta United, and LA Galaxy—will look to maintain their momentum and navigate the complexities of the MLS landscape. With the introduction of new talent and the return of seasoned players, fans can expect an exciting season ahead.
In a league that thrives on dramatic narratives and unexpected twists, these early performances are just the beginning. The stakes are high, and the competition is fierce as teams vie for a spot in the playoffs, making every match a crucial step towards potential glory.
