Starting XI is a biweekly series on SportingKC.com that highlights 11 of the biggest storylines and news updates from Sporting Kansas City, MLS and soccer around the globe. Click here to visit the Starting XI archive.
1. Countdown to Ecstasy
Sporting KC’s 2018 MLS campaign officially begins in 52 days — a number that builds palpable excitement after the club exited the MLS Cup Playoffs more than two months ago. In the countdown to the March 4 curtain raiser against New York City FC, fans can mark their calendars with a few important ticketing dates.