I want MLS to get to 40 so they can make 2 divisions and have pro/rel between the 2 divisions.
Please no
NBC rates the two biggest candidate, Sacramento and Minnesota
http://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/...mls-expansion-race-sacramento-or-minneapolis/
Sacramento
WHO: USL club Sacramento Republic FC.
FINANCES:
Backed by Jed York, CEO of the NFL’s 49ers. Plus a huge group of wealthy investors.
STADIUM: Plans for downtown stadium in place. Huge fan support, highest average crowd in USL history.
HISTORY: That history is just one (albeit very impressive) campaign. Is California’s capital soccer mad?
POPULATION: 480,00
POTENTIAL MLS RIVALS: San Jose, LA Galaxy, LA FC (LA teams five hour drive, two to San Jose)
RATING: 7/10 – After winning USL in 2014, having Preki as coach and a host of wealthy investors, there doesn’t seem to be much risk here. However, they’ve only had one season as a team. That’s the only sticking point.
Minneapolis
WHO: Two groups – Minnesota United of the NASL and the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings.
FINANCES: Minnesota United backed by Dr. McGuire, Timberwolves, Twins; the Vikings.
STADIUM: The Vikings will house the team in their new stadium, United want a downtown S.S.S.
HISTORY: United founded in 2010, formerly known as the Minnesota Stars, other pro teams since ’94.
POPULATION: 400,00
POTENTIAL MLS RIVALS: Chicago, Sporting KC (both a six hour plus drive away)
RATING: 8/10 –
With two competing groups, a young population and sustained crowds for lower leagues over a long period, they have the edge. But which group will get the MLS franchise?
If I had I vote I would give it to Sacramento and wait till Minneapolis came up with one bid.