The MLS season has officially kicked off, who's excited? I know we are at BallisLife Bets! This MLS Season Preview: MLS Cup Favorites, Dark Horses, MVP, and More will take a look at the upcoming MLS season and who looks to be on top, who has a chance at the top, and which players have a real shot at the Landon Donovan Golden Boot. So as always, let's dig in.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 21: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami takes a corner kick during the first half against Real Salt Lake at Chase Stadium on February 21, 2024 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

MLS Cup Winner?

The Columbus Crew was last year's MLS Cup winner and looks like the team to beat in 2024. Not much has changed for the Crew only losing Julian Gressel to an Inter Miami transfer. Other than that this team appears to be the same as last year with coach Wilfried Nancy installing a fresh, winning system.

They also have a new winger the Colombian, Marino Hinestroza, who looks to only strengthen this team. At 8/1 this looks like a good bet to make.

Columbus Crew +800

Another team you should be looking at as favorites to hoist the MLS Cup is the Philadelphia Union. When we talk about a team running it back, this is the perfect example. They brought back the entire team from last season, a group that has played together for some time and has been so close to winning a title that they can taste it.

This team is looking to smash this season and they look primed and capable to do so.

Philadelphia Union +1200

MLS Cup Winner Dark Horse

There are several teams this season who realistically have a chance of making a deep playoff run and possibly lifting the MLS Cup. One of those teams in particular is the Seattle Sounders. At +1600 they have some long-shot odds but they were terrific last season. Finishing second in the Western Conference this team knows how to score and can set up some nice defensive packages to make teams struggle.

They finished just three points behind first place and at least have a shot at the Supporters Shield.

Seattle Sounders +1600

MVP Candidates Who Can Actually Win It

One of the top candidates for the Landon Donovan MLS MVP trophy is Lionel Messi. There are few trophies and accolades he hasn't won and I think he wants to add this one to his collection. Messi came to the MLS to dominate the league and with a full season ahead he has a real chance of getting it.

Another one of the top candidates as player of the year is Columbus Crews, Cucho Hernandez. Last season he exceeded expectations with 21 goals and eight assists. His efforts helped Columbus be one of the league's most explosive offenses and toughest teams to beat.

Look for Hernandez to continue his growth and explosiveness in the 2024 season, making him a real threat to win the MVP award.

Golden Boot Darkhorse

If you don't know the Golden Boot is awarded to the MLS's highest-scoring player. One player who you might not be thinking of but should be is Atlanta United's Giorgos Giakoumakis. He has already won the Eredivisie's and Scottish Premiership's version of the Golden Boot.

Now the Greek phenom looks to continue his hot start in the MLS, making Atlanta one of the league's highest-scoring teams. Take a shot on Giokoumakis to win the boot.

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