MLS Next

MLS Next is a national youth soccer league consisting of MLS academies and other top youth soccer clubs.

About MLS Next

MLS Next is a youth soccer platform created by Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States, aiming to provide a comprehensive development environment for young soccer players. Established in 2020 after the disbandment of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy, MLS Next focuses on fostering a competitive and collaborative atmosphere for youth players to grow, develop their skills, and reach their full potential in the sport.

Structure and Competitions

MLS Next is divided into multiple age groups for both boys and girls, ranging from Under-13 up to Under-19. The platform consists of over 100 clubs, including MLS Academy teams and top youth clubs from across the United States and Canada. The league is organized into several regional conferences, minimizing travel costs and time commitments for the participating teams.

The MLS Next season typically runs from fall to spring, with each team playing a predetermined number of games within their respective conference. At the end of the regular season, the top teams from each conference advance to the MLS Next Cup, a national championship event that showcases the best youth talent from across North America.

Player Development

Player development is at the core of MLS Next’s mission, offering a high level of competition that challenges young players to improve their skills, tactical understanding, and physical fitness. The platform emphasizes collaboration between clubs, sharing best practices, and providing resources to ensure that all players receive the best possible soccer education.

In addition to on-field development, MLS Next also prioritizes off-field education, including initiatives that focus on personal growth, mental health, and character development. The platform aims to create well-rounded individuals who can succeed both on and off the field.

Notable Clubs

MLS Next features numerous renowned youth soccer clubs, including:

• Atlanta United FC Academy
• FC Dallas Academy
• LA Galaxy Academy
• New York Red Bulls Academy
• Seattle Sounders FC Academy

These clubs, along with others within MLS Next, have a track record of developing talented players who have gone on to achieve success at the collegiate, professional, and international levels.

Conclusion

MLS Next is a vital part of the youth soccer landscape in the United States and Canada, providing a competitive and collaborative platform for elite players to develop their skills and showcase their talents. With its strong emphasis on player development, collaboration, and personal growth, MLS Next plays a crucial role in shaping the future of soccer in North America.