Eastern Conference: Evaluating Every Team’s 2025 Season Performance
The 2025 MLS season has concluded, and the performances of various teams in the Eastern Conference reflect a mix of successes and challenges. Here, we assess each team based on their overall performances, including results in major tournaments and player development.
Assessing Eastern Conference Teams: 2025 Season Performance
Philadelphia Union: A Season of Triumph
The Philadelphia Union excelled in 2025, winning the Supporters’ Shield. Newly appointed head coach Bradley Carnell successfully revitalized the team after replacing Jim Curtin. Key players like Quinn Sullivan emerged as national prospects, while Tai Baribo netted a lucrative transfer. Despite flaws in the playoffs, the team’s achievements exceeded expectations this season.
- Grade: Exceeded Expectations
Orlando City SC: A Mixed Bag
Orlando City had a promising start, bolstered by the performance of Marco Pašalić and others. However, relying on aging veterans led to poor playoff results. Although they ended the season with improved points from the last year, their overall standing was disappointing.
- Grade: Slightly Below Expectations
New York City FC: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
NYCFC reached the Eastern Conference Final while facing numerous injuries. Head coach Pascal Jansen’s innovative tactics proved beneficial, showcasing his adaptability. The overall team performance has fostered optimism for the future.
- Grade: Exceeded Expectations
New England Revolution: Disappointment Amid Bright Spots
The Revolution started strong, highlighted by academy prospects like Esmir Bajraktarević. Yet, inconsistent performances and managerial changes hindered their success. The front office’s decisions appear to have stalled progress, resulting in a disappointing season.
- Grade: Below Expectations
Nashville SC: A Spectacular Season
Under B.J. Callaghan, Nashville SC won their first US Open Cup, achieving significant progress with youth development and a modernized playing style. While they still seek more depth, the overall results herald a successful future.
- Grade: Exceeded Expectations
CF Montreal: Struggling to Find Identity
Overall changes in coaching and roster left Montreal struggling. They finished last in the Eastern Conference, showcasing a lack of coherence throughout the season. Moving forward, the team needs to establish a clearer direction.
- Grade: Below Expectations
Columbus Crew: A Disappointing Campaign
The Crew faced early setbacks after losing key player Cucho Hernández. This, combined with injuries and ineffective new signings, resulted in a lackluster season. Although there were positive developments in some young players, overall results fell short.
- Grade: Below Expectations
Cincinnati FC: Underwhelming Despite Investments
Cincinnati FC invested heavily in new signings but failed to maximize their potential. They achieved a high points total but struggled in crucial matches. Their performance indicated a team that was unable to live up to its perceived potential.
- Grade: Below Expectations
Chicago Fire: A Success Story
In their first season under head coach Gregg Berhalter, Chicago Fire managed a remarkable turnaround. They demonstrated improved teamwork and strategy, marking a successful debut despite some defensive shortcomings.
- Grade: Exceeded Expectations
Charlotte FC: Sustainable Progress
Charlotte’s management made strategic acquisitions, leading to a solid regular-season performance. Despite early playoff exits, their capabilities in regular play show promise for continued growth.
- Grade: Met Expectations
Atlanta United: Following Troubling Patterns
Atlanta United had a disappointing season after high-profile signings failed to deliver results. Outlook remains bleak for the next season under new management, emphasizing the need for substantial changes.
- Grade: Below Expectations
This evaluation provides a comprehensive look at the Eastern Conference teams, reflecting on their successes and shortcomings throughout the 2025 MLS season. Moving forward, teams must leverage these insights to navigate the challenges ahead as they prepare for the 2026 season.
