Puerto Rico FC, a professional soccer team based in San Juan, has been playing in the North American Soccer League (NASL) since 2016. However, there have been speculations and rumors about the team's future and a move to Major League Soccer (MLS). Here's everything you need to know.
First, let's talk about Puerto Rico FC and their journey so far. The team was founded in 2015 by Carmelo Anthony, NBA star and Puerto Rican-born businessman, alongside several local entrepreneurs. They began playing in the NASL in 2016 and have been a part of the league for five seasons now.
During their debut campaign, Puerto Rico FC finished fifth in the table out of twelve teams, narrowly missing out on a playoff spot. The following year, they advanced to the semifinals but were defeated by eventual champions, the San Francisco Deltas. The team has struggled in recent years, finishing with a record of four wins, eleven losses, and nine draws in the 2020 season.
Despite relatively poor results in the last few seasons, Puerto Rico FC has developed a loyal fan base and has been known for importing talent from other countries, including Spain, Brazil, and Nigeria. This diversity and integration of different cultures have given the team a unique identity that sets them apart from other clubs.
Now, let's talk about the possibility of Puerto Rico FC joining MLS. In late 2019, MLS Commissioner Don Garber traveled to San Juan and met with Puerto Rico FC officials to discuss the potential of the club becoming an expansion team. However, no concrete plans or agreements have been made since then.
In recent months, NASL has experienced financial difficulties that have raised concerns about the future of various teams, including Puerto Rico FC. In early 2021, reports suggested that the NASL would suspend operations temporarily, causing uncertainty for Puerto Rico FC and its players.
So, what does all this mean for Puerto Rico FC's chances of joining MLS? While there have been discussions, it seems unlikely that a move to MLS will happen anytime soon. The team needs to focus on stabilizing its financial position and improving on-field performance to raise their value as an expansion candidate.
In conclusion, Puerto Rico FC has been an exciting addition to the NASL and has shown potential in the past. However, their future remains uncertain due to financial concerns surrounding the league. While a move to MLS may be a possibility eventually, it's likely to be far off until the team can demonstrate its viability both financially and competitively.