In a recent statement, Jimmy Haslam, the owner of Columbus Crew and Cleveland Browns, expressed his belief that Major League Soccer (MLS) has a significant distance to cover before positioning itself among the top five leagues globally. Haslam highlighted the importance of enhancing the overall quality of competition within the league to attract increased interest and viewership.

Haslam stressed the necessity for MLS to 'put a better product on the field' to enhance its standing within the global football community. Emphasizing the importance of fan engagement and interest, he suggested that an improved standard of play, combined with potential structural changes like a promotion-relegation system, could potentially address the challenges facing the league in drawing consistent TV audiences.

The idea of introducing a promotion-relegation system in MLS has been a topic of discussion among fans and stakeholders for some time. While such a system could inject excitement and competitiveness into the league, its implementation presents logistical and financial challenges that need to be carefully addressed. Haslam's suggestion reflects a growing interest in exploring innovative approaches to elevate MLS's profile on the global stage.

As MLS continues its journey towards establishing itself as a top-tier football league, the calls for improved quality, enhanced competitiveness, and innovative strategies will likely become more pronounced. Jimmy Haslam's advocacy for a 'better product' and potential structural changes underscores the evolving landscape of professional soccer in North America and the league's aspirations to compete at the highest level internationally.