Part One: Soccer As A Business

Photo by VCG/VCG via Getty ImagesEditor’s Note: This article is the first in a series analyzing the effect of money in Major League Soccer. Links to all articles can be found at the bottom as they are released.

Soccer is a business.

We forget that sometimes, getting caught up in the wins, losses and ties of the game, ignoring the fact that sports are indeed an industry. We’re reminded of this at times, like when a favorite player is traded away or released. Even then, we forget to think about the beautiful game in terms of profits.

Soccer isn’t about profits though, at least not in terms of money. Player salaries, stadiums and normal operating expenses add up quickly, often far outpacing the…