Landon Donovan: What Soccer in America Still Needs

Landon Donovan joins Portfolio Players for a wide-ranging conversation on the growth of soccer in America, investing in sports, MLS expansion, media, and the future of the global game. Donovan breaks down: • Why he believes the NWSL is the best investment in sports today • What ownership groups often misunderstand about building successful teams • How MLS can continue evolving into a world-class league • His experience investing in Lincoln City FC • Why women’s soccer continues gaining momentum in the U.S. • The impact of Apple’s MLS media deal • His transition into sports broadcasting and media • The inspiration behind writing his memoir and discussing mental health • What he still wants to invest in across sports and business This episode of Portfolio Players, presented by ‪@etrade_frommorganstanley‬, explores how one of the most influential figures in American soccer views investment, ownership, media, and the future of the sport. Chapters: 2:02 - Talking World Cup 3:33 - Soccer Entering the Mainstream 6:03 - The Rise of Women’s Soccer 7:03 - Buying Into Lincoln City 8:23 - Why NWSL Is the Best Investment in Sports 9:33 - What Ownership Groups Are Missing 11:03 - MLS & NWSL Expansion 14:03 - MLS + Apple TV Partnership 15:48 - Second Act Career in Media 17:13 - Influential Figures in Sports Broadcasting 18:03 - Time at Everton 19:33 - Writing an Autobiography & Mental Health 22:33 - Youth Sports & Soccer Development 26:03 - What Donovan Wants to Invest In 27:03 - Best Advice Portfolio Players is Front Office Sports’s original series exploring the deals, capital, and decision-makers shaping the future of sports business. Subscribe for more conversations with the industry’s top builders, operators, and investors.