Sorry, 2008 MLS NEXT players. You Got Screwed.

With MLS NEXT proposing and finalizing plans to transition to a U-15, U-16 & U-18, 2008 players get hosed again.

This year, players born in 2008 are considered U-16. MLS Academies don’t have teams in this age group. Players had to play up or find a non-MLS club to play for. Unfortunately, most of the talent had to move on from the MLS academies.

So, these players aren’t able to play in their age group this year. With the new changes next year, they won’t be able to play in their age group AGAIN.

Of course, they can still play for a non-MLS club that has a full pathway from U-13 to U-19.

But, compared to their MLS peers, most of the players won’t be able to play for an MLS club for a second year in a row.

Honestly, it’s dumb luck for these couple of years. I’m sorry it happened.

After the dust settles, it won’t matter. Unless MLS NEXT decides to change the age groups again.

I don’t anticipate them reverting back or changing again after this.

What’s a player to do in this situation? For a small handful of players, you’ll probably get a chance to trial for the U-18 group.

If you are on the cusp, it might be advantageous to stay on your non-MLS academy team. Get bigger, stronger, and faster. Work on your technical abilities. And, develop an underdog mindset.

Don’t let this hurdle get in the way of accomplishing what you set out for. Instead, adjust and use it as a springboard!