Building Resilience in the MLS Transfer Window

The opening of the MLS summer transfer window signals the last chance for organizations to reevaluate, restructure and reenergize their club before the September roster freeze. The biggest threat to successful organizations will be complacency and false optimism, with those struggling at the bottom of the league pondering the risk reward of a big move in order to make the playoffs. Balancing objectives at this time of year is really tough, especially if you are down at the bottom of the table looking up. One or two injuries to key personnel could derail the season completely. There will be a desire to add fresh faces to the group in order to show commitment to key stakeholders that all is not lost. Teams will need to rotate and add depth for Leagues Cup whilst trying to channel energy and refocus for when the regular MLS season resumes. History shows that momentum going into the post season can get your farther than expected. Effectively navigating this window requires a high level of clarity and a strong sense of purpose. Team leaders within all departments will need to build resilience - the ‘X factor’ in which a team will succeed or fail. Positive emotions and celebrating meaningful team contributions at this time are critical to maintaining team moral during schedule gaps and long road trips. Adopting simple short term goals and achievements will help build resilience whilst enhancing belief and confidence. In a league where margin for error is thin and every on field player acquisition is magnified, the MLS summer window also provides a true test of strategic foresight and leadership.