Joey Garrison from the Tennessean joined ESPN 102.5 The Game’s morning show with Braden Gall to discuss the impending MLS decision on soccer in Nashville coming soon.
While there are no leaks currently on how MLS will select for their next two franchises, Nashville is still considered a favorite to land a squad. The stadium proposal Nashville put forward clearly puts Music City on the frontlines of contention alone.
The Board of Governors is scheduled to meet on Thursday and it’s possible they could reach a decision that day, but it’s likely the process will be drawn out over a couple days.
“I think Nashville is considered one of the top two favorites for a team, along with Sacramento” Garrison said, “The stadium issue for the other two cities may be what holds up what Detroit is pitching. Cincinnati, they did have a public vote and got some public money for infrastructure for their stadium but they still have a gap or a secure stadium deal.”
A looming question Garrison presented is if Nashville can support another professional sports franchise. The strength of their ownership group will play in Nashville SC’s favor when it comes to generating funding for non-taxpayer paid expenses.
In terms of the market for soccer in Nashville, a MLS team would have to compete with the Titans and Preds. Garrison believes MLS sees a budding soccer community in Nashville, evidenced by the attendance at the Gold Cup game last summer.
“I think supporters of Nashville SC, there’s a lot of good trend lines in general for Nashville that indicate they could have a vibrant and successful MLS team here.” Garrison said.
To hear the full interview with Joey Garrison check ESPN 102.5 The Game’s SoundCloud page below.
