How MLS NEXT is Fueling the Future of U.S. Soccer
Young soccer talent in America now has a clearer path to professional careers than ever before, with MLS NEXT serving as the critical first step in a development pipeline that’s producing real results.
TL;DR:
Building the Bridge Between Youth and Professional Soccer
The relationship between MLS NEXT and MLS NEXT Pro represents one of American soccer’s most important innovations of the past decade.
While European clubs have long established youth-to-professional pipelines, the American system is now showing impressive results of its own specialized approach.
And, it’s just the beginning…
The Numbers Tell the Story
When you look at the data, the impact becomes undeniable. With over 1,000 MLS NEXT Academy players already competing in MLS NEXT Pro matches, we’re seeing the theoretical pipeline become reality.
Even more impressive is that 34% of all MLS NEXT Pro players in 2024 came directly from MLS NEXT Academies.
In my opinion, this percentage will likely increase over the next few seasons as clubs become more comfortable relying on their academy products rather than outside recruitment. We’re already seeing more homegrown contracts. The cycle will continue to grow stronger.
All-Stars Showcase the System’s Success
The 2024 MLS NEXT All-Star Game served as a perfect showcase for this development model.
Of the elite players selected, 29 had already featured in MLS NEXT Pro matches, demonstrating how the best young talents are being fast-tracked through the system.
Standout names like FC Cincinnati’s Stefan Chirila, St. Louis City SC’s Tyson Pearce, and Philadelphia Union’s Cavan Sullivan (who earned All-Star Game MVP honors) represent the cream of the crop in this development system.
From Academy to Best XI
Perhaps the most convincing evidence of the pipeline’s effectiveness comes from the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro Best XI selections. Six former MLS NEXT players—Francis Westfield, Diego Gonzalez, Aron John, CJ Olney, Mykhi Joyner, and David Poreba—earned spots on this prestigious list.
I believe these Best XI selections represent just the beginning of what we’ll see from MLS NEXT graduates in the coming years, with several likely to make the jump to first-team rosters and eventually international competition.
The Future Looks Bright ✨
With MLS NEXT Pro kicking off its new season on March 7th, the connection between these developmental leagues continues to strengthen.
Young players now have a clear understanding of the path forward: excel in MLS NEXT, prove yourself in MLS NEXT Pro, and earn your shot at the highest level of American club soccer.
Written By: Beau Bridges
Beau is the founder of SoccerNovo, dedicated to helping players and parents navigate the youth soccer landscape. As a former youth coach and soccer parent, he shares insights on player development, recruiting, and the ever-evolving soccer scene in the U.S.
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