Worried by Political Concerns, MLS Forces FC Dallas to Block Jesus Ferreira’s $13M Move to Russia

Jesus Ferreira was more than willing to end his 6-year spell at FC Dallas. The USMNT International had all but completed his move to the Russian club Spartak Moscow. Moreover, his club Dallas was even willing to accept the $13 million offer tabled by Spartak. However, it seems like the transfer is all but called off! This time it’s not the agents who have interfered but the MLS itself. Considering, the unique business model of Major League Soccer compared to the top European Leagues, they are well within their power to do so. What’s going on? With 12 goals & 4 assists in the 2023 MLS season, the USMNT star was a hot commodity in the transfer market.

He was even voted into the MLS Best XI in 2022. However, his spell at Dallas hasn’t brought him any trophies. Hence, it is understandable as to why Jesus Ferreira wanted to seek a different challenge. Yet, he is set to continue with Dallas for the upcoming season and even scored in the pre-season game against Inter Miami. Despite all parties reaching an agreement about the deal, the MLS canceled the transfer due to the potential risk of dealing with a Russian club. Following, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, a lot of organizations & businesses have refused to deal with Russian entities. Perhaps, FIFA and UEFA’s decisions, generally, in soccer also played a role in the MLS’ call.

The UEFA has banned Russian clubs from participating in the UCL while FIFA has adopted the same approach toward Russia in international competitions. It is also worth noting that this isn’t the first time, the MLS has adopted such a stance. It had previously nixed the New York Red Bulls midfielder Cristian Casseres’ transfer to Lokomotiv Moscow.

That would bring up the question- what gives the Major League Soccer board the power to execute such decisions?

Single-Entity model of MLS reason why Jesus Ferreira’s move was blocked!

MLS employs a very unique structure, referred to as a single-entity model. This gives the league complete control over player rights. In fact, Major League Soccer is owned by investors who have the power to run an MLS side in an investor cum operator role rather than solely as a team owner. This is the single biggest difference between the MLS and Europe, as the clubs arranging a player transfer are negotiating with the MLS and not just a single team.

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This particular structure gives the MLS certain powers & privileges. It includes overruling player signings & and rejecting salary hikes. This might affect the competitiveness of the league. But also massively tilts the bargaining power in favor of the MLS.

What is your opinion on MLS blocking Jesus Ferreira’s move? Tell us below.

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