They have certainly made a solid run in the playoffs, as Lionel Messi’s epic performance helped his side get through Nashville in a thrilling first-round series. Then, Miami lambasted Cincinnati in the second round, moving within a win of the MLS Cup Final for the first time in franchise history.

After guiding Red Bulls II to the MLS Next Pro title, Bradley is in line for an instant promotion, sources tell The Athletic

U.S. men’s national team goalkeeper Matt Freese kept three clean sheets in five playoff appearances. Meanwhile, Rocco Ríos Novo has two shutouts in five games for Inter Miami. Vancouver Whitecaps’ Yohei Takaoka has just one in the playoffs ahead of the final.

Steve Cherundolo's stint as LAFC coach ended in a disappointing playoff loss to Vancouver, but the team's roster and culture remains in good shape for 2026.