Topps, the renowned sports card company, is shaking up the Major League Soccer (MLS) scene with its new debut patch card program. Following the success of this initiative in Major League Baseball, Topps is now turning its attention to MLS rookies for the upcoming 2024 season.
This innovative program aims to highlight and honor MLS newcomers by incorporating special debut patches from their very first games into one-of-a-kind rookie cards. These cards will not only feature the authentic game-worn patches but also bear the autographs of the budding soccer stars.
The process kicks off by sending the exclusive MLS Debut patches to team equipment managers. These patches are then carefully attached to the jerseys of first-year players using adhesive. Once the player makes their official debut on the field, the patches are removed with care and sent to Topps for the transformation into highly coveted collectible cards.
Rookies who make their MLS debut by April 1 will have the privilege of being featured in the 2024 Topps MLS product release. For those debuting after this date, their patches will be held over for inclusion in the next year’s series. This strategic timing ensures that the rising talents in MLS are promptly recognized and celebrated through the Topps card collections.
As the MLS season gets underway, fans can anticipate thrilling matches, including the season opener between Inter Miami CF and Real Salt Lake. Although the debut patch program will not showcase last season’s addition of Lionel Messi to Miami, it will shine a spotlight on this year’s notable arrivals, such as Luis Suarez and Hugo Lloris.
Drawing inspiration from its successful debut patch program in Major League Baseball, where patches have become prized collectibles, Topps is now providing soccer enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to connect with emerging MLS stars through these exclusive cards. By expanding this initiative to the realm of soccer, Topps continues to push boundaries and innovate within the sports memorabilia market.
