Important offseason dates leading up to 2025
The countdown to the 2025 MLS season has officially started for Atlanta United, with the new season kicking off in February.
Soccer analyst Matthew Doyle from MLSSoccer.com has predicted that this offseason could be the “busiest winter of any club in MLS history” for Atlanta United. The club is set to hire a new head coach and general manager, while also potentially filling two designated player spots. There’s much to anticipate for Atlanta United supporters this offseason.
Here are some key dates to remember this offseason:
- Wednesday, Nov. 27 – Deadline for Bona Fide Offers
Atlanta United must submit in writing to the league office which players will have their options exercised, which won’t, and all Bona Fide offers. - Monday, Dec. 9 – Half-Day Trade Window (9 a.m. ET – 1 p.m. ET)
After a three-month roster freeze, Atlanta United can start making trades with other MLS teams during a half-day trade window. - Wednesday, Dec. 11 – Saturday, Dec. 14 – MLS College Showcase
The MLS College Showcase will be held in San Diego, providing Atlanta United’s technical staff an opportunity to scout top collegiate talent across the country. - Wednesday, Dec. 11 – MLS Expansion Draft
San Diego FC, the latest MLS expansion team, can select up to five players from the eligible player list. - Thursday, Dec. 12 – Free Agency Opens (1 p.m. ET)
Atlanta United can engage with players eligible for Free Agency. These players are out-of-contract or have declined their options, are at least 24 years old, and have at least five years of service. - Thursday, Dec. 12 – End-of-Year Waivers (5 p.m. ET)
The End-of-Year Waivers process takes place in reverse order of the 2024 season’s finish. San Diego FC will get the 30th pick in each round. - Friday, Dec. 13 – Re-Entry Process, Stage 1 (1 p.m. ET)
Players eligible for the Re-Entry Process Stage 1 must be at least 22 years old, have at least one year of service, and not qualify for Free Agency. - Thursday, Dec. 19 – Re-Entry Process, Stage 2 (1 p.m. ET)
Players not selected in Stage 1 will be available in Stage 2 of the Re-Entry Process. - Friday, Dec. 20 – 2025 MLS SuperDraft
The 2025 MLS SuperDraft will include three rounds of player selections. San Diego FC, as an expansion club, will have the first pick in each round. - January 2025 – Preseason Workouts Begin
Atlanta United players return to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground for their first season under a new head coach.