MLS NEXT has layered on several new initiatives for the 2025–26 season and beyond. These include a scholarship requirement for member clubs, minimum playing-time standards at U13 and U14, and a coming age‑group shift for the Academy Division starting in 2026–27. While the league describes these moves as ‘player-first’ and focused on access and development, many coaches and parents are divided on whether the changes actually improve the experience on the ground.
MLS NEXT Announces Major Changes for 2025-26: What Every U.S. Youth Soccer Family Needs to Know
Last updated: December 2, 2025
If you’re the parent of a youth soccer player with big dreams, you’ve probably heard of MLS NEXT—Major League Soccer’s elite youth development platform. This spring, MLS NEXT announced a major expansion that will reshape the landscape for thousands of players, coaches, and families starting in the 2025-26 season. Many interpret this as a second tier but league officials maintain that it is not a separate or lower division.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what’s new, why it matters, and how you can best support your player in this evolving environment:
1. MLS NEXT Expansion: More Clubs, More Teams, More Opportunity
2025-26 MLS NEXT Structure & Tiers
MLS NEXT enters the 2025-26 season with two official national competition tiers:
UPDATE:
- The new Academy Division (what many parents call ‘MLS NEXT2’) has officially launched with regional conferences, Cup Qualifiers, and access to national events such as MLS NEXT Fest and MLS NEXT Cup.
- With the Academy Division, MLS NEXT has more than doubled its player and club pool while keeping both tiers in the same overall platform.
Homegrown Division (Top Tier)
- Features the official MLS Academies and highest-level non-MLS clubs.
- Pathway to professional contracts, national team selection, and D1 recruiting.
Academy Division (New for 2025-26)
- Operated by respected partners (e.g., NAL, EAL, SDL, Cobalt Sports, Cal North), delivering high-quality, regionalized competition.
- Open to a wider variety of clubs, including those outside the traditional MLS pipeline.
- Players retain the option to play high school soccer**, unlike in the top tier.
- Both tiers participate in national events, with the expanded MLS NEXT Fest now serving 1,000+ teams annually.
Latest numbers:
- 273 clubs
- 2,189 teams
- 43,000+ players
2. Key Updates for 2025-26: Recruiting, Movement & Pathways
- Open Trial/Transfer Period: July 15 – August 22, 2025 (dates shift slightly each year; check the latest MLS NEXT guide)
- Transparency: Clearer written approval and communication requirements for inter-club movement
- Homegrown Rights: Clubs may list up to 45 registered players (U-15, U-17, U-19) and 9 “non-registered” prospects from within their territory.
- College/Pro Pathways: Both tiers provide exposure through national showcases and the expanded MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs.
Parent Tip: Players and families should confirm with their current club which division (Homegrown or Academy) the club will compete in.
NEW UPDATE:
Playing Time Rules at Younger Ages
U13 games now use three 25-minute periods instead of two 35-minute halves, and every rostered player must get at least one uninterrupted 25‑minute period (exceptions for injury, etc.), to guarantee meaningful minutes for all players.”
Coaches have more flexible substitution rules at U14, and MLS is extending its Pro Player Pathway support into younger age groups, which can push top prospects into older brackets earlier.
NEW UPDATE: Scholarship Initiative and Access
Starting in 2025–26, MLS NEXT has introduced a scholarship initiative that requires each member club to provide at least one fully funded opportunity per season, with the goal of improving access for talented players who cannot afford full fees.”
Parents should ask clubs: How are scholarship slots awarded? How many total players receive aid? Is support limited to tuition, or does it include travel and events?
3. Homegrown Player Rights: What Parents Should Know
Understanding Homegrown Territories
Each MLS club has a defined “Homegrown” territory, allowing them exclusive rights to sign local youth players to professional contracts. This system incentivizes MLS clubs to invest in their communities and develop local talent.
- Homegrown Player List: Clubs can claim up to 45 registered academy players (U-15, U-17, U-19) and an additional 9 non-registered players from their territory. These players cannot be recruited by other MLS clubs.
- Development Grants: When a youth club develops a player who signs a pro contract, MLS provides a Development Grant to that club, supporting continued grassroots investment.
Here’s some Advice:
If your child is on an MLS club’s Homegrown list, discuss with the club what this means for college and pro opportunities. Ask about the club’s history of promoting players to higher levels.
4. Expanded Pathways: College, Pro, and National Team Exposure
What Does This Mean for Your Player?
- More Exposure: With more clubs and national events, players have greater chances to be seen by college coaches, pro scouts, and U.S. Soccer national team staff.
- Flexible Pathways: The new structure allows players to pursue high school soccer, club soccer, or both—tailoring their journey to fit their goals.
- National Events: MLS NEXT’s showcases and playoffs are some of the most heavily scouted events in the country.
Parent Tip:
Attend regional showcases and talk to college recruiters. Many families find these events invaluable for networking and learning about scholarship opportunities.
5. Navigating the New Rules: Practical Advice for Families
- Stay Informed: Mark your calendar for the open period (July – August). This is the best time to explore new clubs or trial opportunities. Check the MLS official website for dates.
- Communicate Clearly: If considering a club change, always inform your current coach and follow MLS NEXT’s written approval process.
- Understand Your Rights: Ask your club about its Homegrown policies and what support is available for college recruiting.
- Balance Academics and Athletics: With high school eligibility preserved, consider what environment best supports your child’s academic and athletic growth.
ASK QUESTIONS!
This is a biggy. Don’t hesitate to reach out to club directors or MLS NEXT representatives for clarification on rules or opportunities.
What to ask your club now:
Which division (Homegrown or Academy) are our teams in, and why?
How many scholarship spots does our club offer, and what is the process to be considered?
How will the U13/U14 playing-time rules be handled on our team?
What age‑group cut‑off will our club follow in 2026–27, and how might that affect my player’s team?
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the new official tiers in MLS NEXT?
Q: Can my child play high school and MLS NEXT soccer?
Q: How do we know what tier our club is in?
Q: What’s the player transfer period?
Q: Will there be national showcases for both tiers?
Resources & Official Links
Bottomline
MLS NEXT’s 2025-26 expansion and new player movement rules represent a huge step forward for U.S. youth soccer. With more opportunities, greater transparency, and a player-first approach, families have more tools than ever to help their players reach their full potential. Stay proactive, ask questions, and make the most of the exciting changes ahead!