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While it remains to be seen what FC Edmonton will accomplish on the field this year, they are working to keep up with a league that continues to grow off of it.

This offseason has seen the North American Soccer League reach a greater level in terms of teams, talent, and stature than arguably any point in the league’s history.

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“I think that the whole league in general has taken a real step forward,” FC Edmonton head coach Colin Miller said. “This offseason has been the best that I’ve certainly experienced in my three seasons in Edmonton.”

The NASL has seen multiple new entrants enter the fold for 2016, all with backing from names known around the globe. Miami FC is co-owned by Italian soccer legend Paulo Maldini and coached by Alessandro Nesta. Puerto Rico FC, who won’t begin playing until the fall season, is owned by NBA star Carmelo Anthony.

And Rayo OKC is controlled by the owner of Rayo Vallencano of La Liga, Spanish soccer’s top tier.