Is MLS’ Orlando bubble really worth the risk of coronavirus?

The hassle has arguably become the biggest focus of the MLS’ return to play.

As Orlando City SC and Inter Miami take the field for the first game in the “MLS is Back” tournament, there seems to be more weariness than excitement.

Returning with a month-long tournament in Orlando with a spot in the CONCACAF Champions League and a large lump of money on the line seemed like a brilliant way to bring the sport back without the pressure of a regular season. Since then, however, the MLS’ return has been marred by troubles.

While not necessarily surprising, positive tests have become a commonality, resulting in re-scheduling numerous games and FC Dallas skipping the tournament in its entirety. On the other hand, noteworthy stars such as LAFC’s Carlos Vela will remain at home amid fears of the coronavirus.

Those problems are not dealbreakers on the season’s integrity, but they bring one question to the forefront: Is all the hassle worth it?

The answer may be no.

Can the on-field action overcome the burdens of the MLS’ Orlando bubble?

The MLS is doing its job, aiming to bring the sport into focus when many are begging for sports in their lives. But at the same time, the complications that have come with it seem utterly pointless to face for a relatively meaningless tournament.

There is very little at stake. Years from now, the tournament will fade out of our existence. The NBA, on the other hand, will crown a champion in a season unlike any other.

The MLS will do the same in just a few months when the regular season resumes, so why not wait until then? Instead, it has begun to feel more like a rushed comeback that simply is not worth the risk. Let’s see if the return to the field can put those worries to bed.