Topps, the renowned trading card company, is taking its debut patch card program to new heights by introducing it to Major League Soccer. Building on the success of the initiative in Major League Baseball, Topps is set to create exclusive 1/1 rookie cards for MLS players, adorned with game-worn debut patches and player autographs.
The innovative debut patch card program will make its debut in the 2024 MLS season. This unique program aims to celebrate the arrival of new talent in the league by incorporating special debut patches into the jerseys of rookie players for their first game. These patches will then be carefully collected, transformed, and used to create one-of-a-kind rookie cards that will be featured in upcoming Topps MLS product releases, each bearing the player’s signature.
The process involves sending the MLS Debut patches to the team’s equipment managers, who will attach them to the jerseys of first-year players using an adhesive. Once the player makes their debut on the pitch, these precious patches will be removed and sent to Topps for the production of highly collectible cards that will surely excite soccer fans and card collectors alike.
Players who make their MLS debut before April 1 will have the honor of being featured in the 2024 Topps MLS product, while those debuting after this date will have their patch included in the next year’s series. This strategic timing ensures that the new talents making waves in MLS are promptly recognized and commemorated through these unique and exclusive collectible cards.
As the MLS season kicks off with a thrilling lineup of matches, including the anticipated opening night clash between Inter Miami CF and Real Salt Lake, fans can look forward to the debut of the MLS Debut Patch Card program. While the program may not include last season’s addition of soccer legend Lionel Messi to Miami, it will shine a spotlight on this year’s high-profile newcomers like Luis Suarez and Hugo Lloris, adding an extra layer of excitement to the already electrifying MLS season.
Drawing inspiration from the success of the MLB Debut Patch program, which saw 91 patches from the 2023 Topps Chrome Update packages reach online auctions, the expansion of this initiative to Major League Soccer is poised to create an even greater buzz among soccer enthusiasts. Not only does this program offer fans a unique opportunity to connect with emerging soccer stars, but it also underscores Topps’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation within the sports memorabilia market.