The Minnesota United FC history reflects a journey of passion, growth, and resilience. Known proudly as the Minnesota United FC Loons, the club has built a strong identity in Major League Soccer. With talented Minnesota United FC players driving their success, the team continues to earn respect for its competitive spirit and loyal fan support.
Established
2015
City
Saint Paul
League History
2017 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2017 – Present / Minnesota United FC
Nickname
Minnesota United FC – Minnesota United FC is one of the newest teams in Major League Soccer (MLS), and they have a unique nickname with their own exciting story. The team’s official name is Minnesota United Football Club, but their fans refer to them as “The Loons.” This nickname originates from Minnesota's state bird, the common loon.
Minnesota United FC Origin
The common loon symbolizes strength and resilience for Minnesotans, so it was fitting for this MLS team to adopt this iconic bird as their mascot when they joined MLS in 2017. In addition to being an essential part of local culture and history, loons are also known for being incredibly agile swimmers with powerful wingspans – qualities that make them perfect symbols of athleticism and sportsmanship on a soccer field!
At first glance, it may seem like an odd choice for a soccer team's mascot; however, upon closer inspection, you can see why The Loons were chosen by Minnesota United FC: not only does it represent something meaningful about the culture around Minneapolis-St Paul area where they play home games at Allianz Field stadium; but more importantly –it perfectly encapsulates what makes sports great: passion & perseverance through adversity!
Whether you're cheering on your favorite players or just enjoying watching some high-quality matches between two competitive sides - there's no denying that The Loons embody all these traits beautifully!
Championship
MLS Cups 0
Stadium
2019 – Present / Allianz Field
2017 - 2018 / TCF Bank Stadium
Owner
2015 - Present / Bill McGuire, Jim Pohlad, Robert Pohlad, Glen Taylor, Wendy Carlson Nelson
- 2015
- 2017
- 2019
- 2020
- 2022
-
Minnesota United FC Team Formation
On March 25, 2015, Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber announced Minnesota United as the league’s 23rd club and awarded the franchise to a group led by McGuire. The ownership group includes other Minneapolis-St. Paul sports owners, Twins owner Jim Pohlad, Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor, and Wild investor Glen Nelson. They beat out a competing bid by Minnesota Vikings owners ... -
Minnesota United FC plays its inaugural season in MLS
In 2017: Minnesota United FC plays its inaugural season in MLS, joining the Western Conference along with fellow expansion team Atlanta United FC. The club plays its home games at TCF Bank Stadium, a college football venue shared with the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers. The club’s first head coach is Adrian Heath, a former Orlando City SC manager. The ... -
Minnesota club moves to a new stadium – Allianz Field
In 2019: The Minnesota club moves to a new soccer-specific stadium, Allianz Field, in Saint Paul, Minnesota -
The Minnesota club participated in the MLS is Back Tournament
In 2020: The Minnesota club participated in the MLS is Back Tournament, a special competition held in Orlando, Florida due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reaching the semifinals before losing to Orlando City SC 3–1 -
Minnesota United FC third in the Western Conference
In 2022: Minnesota United FC improves under Heath, finishing third in the Western Conference and qualifying for the playoffs, where they beat LA Galaxy 2–1 in the first round before losing to Seattle Sounders FC 3–2 in the conference semifinals
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Minnesota United FC History
The Minnesota United FC history began in 2010 when the club was founded as the NSC Minnesota Stars. Based in Minneapolis–St. Paul, the Minnesota United FC Loons quickly became known for their determination and growing fanbase. After success in the North American Soccer League (NASL), where they were crowned champions in 2011, the team rebranded and joined Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2017 as part of the Western Conference.
During their early MLS seasons, the Minnesota United FC Loons worked hard to establish themselves among top clubs. Their style of play, home support, and talented Minnesota United FC players helped them become a competitive side. In 2019, they reached the U.S. Open Cup Final, showcasing their continued growth and determination to bring trophies to Minnesota.
Minnesota Achievements
The 2020 season was another milestone in Minnesota United FC history, as the club made a strong playoff run, narrowly missing the MLS Cup Final. Star Minnesota United FC players like Emanuel Reynoso and Michael Boxall played vital roles in these achievements, proving the team’s potential to compete at the highest level.
Throughout their MLS journey, the Minnesota United FC Loons have continued to strengthen their roster, fan culture, and stadium presence. Their loyal supporters, known as the “Wonderwall,” have made home games electric. With a promising lineup of Minnesota United FC players and a strong management vision, the team’s future looks bright as they aim for greater success and more historic moments in years to come.
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Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history