MLS Next: The Premier Youth Soccer Pathway in North America
MLS Next is the elite youth soccer competition platform managed and organized by Major League Soccer (MLS). Operating across the United States and Canada, it serves as the primary engine for developing the next generation of soccer talent within the CONCACAF region. Launched in 2020, the league provides a structured, high-level environment for both MLS-affiliated academies and independent non-MLS clubs.
The system is designed to bridge the gap between grassroots soccer and the professional game, offering a comprehensive competitive ladder for young athletes. By integrating various age groups and providing a clear trajectory toward professional play, MLS Next has become the gold standard for youth development in North America.
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Key Facts
- Founded: 2020 by Major League Soccer.
- Scope: Operates in the United States and Canada.
- Scale: Currently features 753 teams across 151 clubs (including 602 academies).
- Age Groups: Covers U-13, U-14, U-15, U-16, U-17, and U-19.
- Structure: Organized into 8 conferences.
- Pathway: Integrated with MLS Next Pro for a seamless transition to professional first teams.
The Evolution of Elite Youth Soccer
Before the inception of MLS Next, the landscape of elite youth soccer was dominated by the U.S. Soccer Development Academy (USSDA), established in 2007 by the United States Soccer Federation. The USSDA aimed to create a top-tier division for youth soccer, featuring both MLS and independent academies.
The transition to the current system occurred rapidly in 2020. On March 12, 2020, the USSDA suspended operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, eventually shutting down on April 15, 2020, citing financial difficulties. In response, Major League Soccer announced a new platform on April 16, 2020, to ensure that elite youth players continued to have access to year-round, high-level competition.
MLS Next was officially unveiled on September 8, 2020, starting with 489 teams from 113 clubs. The inaugural matches took place on September 11, 2020, at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Colorado, featuring U-17 and U-19 clashes between the Colorado Rapids and Real Colorado.
Expanding the Ecosystem
Since its launch, MLS Next has aggressively expanded its reach and inclusivity. In June 2021, the league added 24 new clubs and expanded age groups for 16 existing members. To complete the professional pipeline, MLS launched MLS Next Pro in December 2021, a professional league that allows players to transition from the youth academy directly into a professional environment before reaching an MLS first team.
Recent strategic moves have further broadened the league's impact:
- Gender Inclusion: In December 2024, MLS Next formed a strategic partnership with the Girls Academy to align development pathways for both boys and girls.
- Tiered Competition: In January 2025, a new competition tier was announced, adding approximately 1,200 teams from over 220 clubs across regional divisions.
- Grassroots Integration: The MLS GO program focuses on the fundamentals of the game for children aged 4 to 14, operating across 47 states and Washington D.C.
MLS Next Cup Performance
The MLS Next Cup serves as the pinnacle of the youth season, crowning champions across the various age brackets. The LA Galaxy has emerged as one of the most successful clubs in the competition's history.
| Season | U-13 | U-14 | U-15 | U-16 | U-17 | U-19 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020–21 | — | Real Salt Lake | Weston FC | Orlando City SC | Chicago Fire | — | — |
| 2021–22 | Inter Miami CF | D.C. United | Philadelphia Union | New England Revolution | — | — | |
| 2022–23 | New York Red Bulls | Atlanta United FC | LA Galaxy | New England Revolution | — | — | |
| 2023–24 | Chicago Fire | FC Delco | LA Galaxy | Strikers FC | — | — | |
| 2024–25 | Springfield SYC | Orlando City SC | Philadelphia Union | Real Salt Lake | Inter Miami CF | LA Galaxy | |
| 2025–26 | Atlanta United FC | Orlando City SC | Cedar Academy Stars-Bergen | Total Football Academy | Orlando City Youth | Columbus Crew |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between MLS Next and MLS Next Pro?
MLS Next is a youth soccer league for players in age groups ranging from U-13 to U-19. MLS Next Pro is a professional league designed as a bridge between the youth academies and the MLS first teams.
Which clubs have been the most successful in the MLS Next Cup?
The LA Galaxy has been one of the most successful, securing three titles across different age groups. Other frequent winners include the New England Revolution, Chicago Fire, and Orlando City SC.
How did MLS Next start?
It was created in 2020 by Major League Soccer following the collapse of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy (USSDA), which ended operations due to financial difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Does MLS Next include girls' soccer?
While originally focused on boys, MLS Next announced a strategic partnership with the Girls Academy in December 2024 to foster an aligned development pathway for aspiring female players.
What is MLS GO?
MLS GO is a developmental program aimed at children between the ages of 4 and 14, focusing on teaching the fundamentals of soccer in a community setting across most of the United States.