San Diego FC is playing its first-ever MLS game this weekend in a primetime matchup that adds a new layer to the city's "Beat L.A." mantra. Why it matters: The historic game against LA Galaxy officially kicks off SDFC's 2025 inaugural season as the newest franchise in a league that's rapidly grown to 30 teams in 30 years.

Players, fans, and sports officials are gearing up for the debut of the newest Major League Soccer expansion team in San Diego after waiting for nearly two years.

It makes sense that MLS teams were active globally during FIFA’s winter transfer window, because it occurs in the MLS offseason when clubs are busy building rosters. However, some international clubs in the thick of their seasons may be unwilling to part with players — which has helped spur increasing calls to shift the MLS season.