The story of Major League Soccer in recent seasons is one of expansion and growth. Since the beginning of the 2017 campaign, eight teams have been introduced, including a Charlotte FC franchise that kicks off its inaugural campaign against D.C. United on Saturday (6 p.m. ET, stream live on ESPN+).
Given the whims of ownership and MLS' raft of roster rules, there's no "right" way to come into MLS. There are, however, some do's and don'ts. An expansion club that follows these eight strategies will be hoisting an MLS Cup in no time, we guarantee it.