NEW YORK (Thursday, January 9, 2025) – MLS NEXT today announced a new competition tier that will increase the number of clubs in MLS NEXT and deepen the overall pool of players and coaches. Starting in September 2025, clubs in the program will compete in regular season games, regional tournaments, and various MLS NEXT national events as well as coaching development and education programs, talent identification, and high-performance opportunities.
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The expanded tier of MLS NEXT will be managed by leading league operators across the youth landscape with a strong commitment to player development. The operators will follow mandated program guidelines and technical standards set by MLS NEXT to ensure a high-quality product. Operators will include the National Academy League (NAL) operated by 3Step Soccer, Elite Academy League (EAL), Sporting Development League (SDL), Cobalt Sports, and Cal North Soccer Association.
“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
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About MLS NEXT
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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.