In a recent Q&A webinar, President Lindsay Barenz and co-owner Edreece Arghandiwal of the Oakland Roots discussed various aspects of the team's future, shedding light on upcoming plans and aspirations. Among the topics covered were the team's potential lease extension at the Oakland Coliseum, their interest in securing a permanent stadium at Howard Terminal, and the possibility of joining Major League Soccer (MLS).

Barenz expressed the club's keen interest in extending their lease at the Coliseum beyond the 2025 season, highlighting the venue's role in enhancing the team's financial stability. She emphasized that a move to a larger stadium like the Coliseum is crucial for achieving financial sustainability, pointing to a significant increase in potential revenue from ticket sales.

Furthermore, discussions around a potential permanent stadium site included plans for a purpose-built facility in Oakland with a seating capacity of 20,000 to 25,000. The team remains open to exploring various options, including the Howard Terminal site and other locations within Oakland.

Addressing the possibility of joining MLS, Barenz acknowledged the USL Championship as a suitable fit for the club currently but expressed aspirations for the Roots to be considered should MLS decide to expand with a second team in the Bay Area. While acknowledging the financial implications and criteria for joining MLS, Barenz underlined the club's ambition to grow as a prominent soccer brand.

Social media reactions reflected a mix of optimism and realism regarding the team's future prospects. Some fans highlighted the potential financial challenges of entering MLS, while others expressed enthusiasm for the team's growth and the unique fan culture in Oakland and the surrounding areas.

Overall, the Oakland Roots' strategic plans for stadium development and potential MLS expansion indicate a forward-looking approach to securing the club's long-term future in professional soccer.

We will continue to follow developments as the Oakland Roots navigate their path towards potential growth and expansion, both on and off the field.