Atlanta United FC

MLS says return in mid-May “extremely unlikely," may not play full season

NEW YORK — Major League Soccer hoped its season would be able to resume in mid-May. But now the league says that target date isn’t plausible.

MLS released an update on its season suspension Tuesday and said it was “extremely unlikely” to return May 10 based on guidance from federal and health officials.

The league hopes to play as many games as possible and has enough dates to play the entire season. However, it said it realizes how difficult it may be to get the whole season in.

"We continue to learn more every day from the medical experts, and we expect to have additional details in the coming weeks regarding when we can return to play. As we have throughout this process, we will update our fans with every decision, and we thank them for their support and understanding during this extremely challenging time.”

MLS commissioner Don Garber spoke with ESPN commentator Taylor Twellman about the league’s alternatives if the season returns.

Garber said they have looked at tournament formats and neutral locations as well as playing games behind closed doors.