Kicking off in September 2025, MLS NEXT program expansion will provide more opportunities and pathways for aspiring players;
MLS NEXT is set to broaden its elite youth soccer platform with a new competition tier launching September 2025. The expansion will increase the program beyond its current 151 clubs and 16,000 players.
Key Features:
- Regular season games and regional tournaments
- Eight regional qualifying tournaments for MLS NEXT Cup 2026
- Coaching development programs
- High school soccer eligibility for players
- Partnership with leading youth league operators including National Academy League and Elite Academy League
The expansion complements MLS NEXT’s recent Girls Academy alliance, strengthening youth soccer development across North America.
“MLS NEXT is elevating soccer across North America for players, coaches, and referees,” said MLS NEXT General Manager Kyle Albrecht. “This expansion, alongside our strategic alliance with the Girls Academy, brings together top-tier resources to continue building a clear pathway across North America for more players to reach their highest potential.”
“The addition of a new tier to MLS NEXT reflects Major League Soccer’s continued dedication to growing the game at the youth level,” said MLS NEXT Technical Director Luis Robles. “We are excited to deepen the talent pool and welcome more players and coaches as we work with them to develop the next generation of talent who will impact the professional game and national teams.”
What They’re Saying:
“We think it is wonderful that MLS NEXT has expanded its pathway to give access to more clubs and players. National Academy League has a proven record of working with MLS NEXT Elite Academies and other top clubs. We are thrilled to support MLS NEXT to unite the youth soccer landscape and enhance player development.” – Vice President of 3Step Soccer Ian Burgess
“For the last 5 years, the EA has provided clubs across the U.S. the opportunity to be a part of a national platform, and we are honored that our body of work has been recognized. The alignment with MLS NEXT allows there to be collaboration and cooperation to bring the game together. The EA is excited to play an important role in this new tier of MLS NEXT, while continuing to grow clubs and set standards for clubs to progress and develop within the EA.” – Ryan Miller, EA Commissioner
“The new tier of MLS NEXT is a tremendous development for soccer in the United States. The opportunity for more players to join the Major League Soccer pyramid is important and exciting. Cobalt Sports is proud to be a part of this new MLS NEXT competition and looks forward to serving the players and clubs to the highest professional standards established by MLS.” – Brent Erwin, Cobalt Sports
“It is an honor for Cal North Soccer Association to be included in the tier expansion of MLS NEXT and to be the only youth soccer association involved in this new chapter along with the other soccer organizations. Our goal here in Northern California has always been to grow the game since 1969 and we continue to do so by finding ways of working with strong organizations such as MLS NEXT,” said Marley Wilson, Cal North Soccer Association Executive Director. “Our diligent, yet tenacious work will continue for the better of youth soccer and for the better of our members in Northern California as we look forward to an exciting 2025 year and beyond.”
About MLS NEXT
Launched in 2020, MLS NEXT is the most elite platform for youth player development in North America. With a commitment to innovation and providing access and representation, MLS NEXT players receive the best training and coaching as they prepare for their futures, both in soccer and in life. Throughout a season, MLS NEXT hosts four marquee events across the country, including the Generation adidas Cup, which features MLS academies playing against the top international clubs. Membership for the 2024-25 season included 29 MLS academies, 122 Elite Academies (151 total clubs), 753 teams and over 16,000 players across the U.S. and Canada. Official partners of MLS NEXT include adidas and Allstate. For more information about MLS NEXT, visit www.mlssoccer.com/mlsnext.
via: Major League Soccer
