MLS Expansion: A New Era Begins in 2025-26

The Boot Room by GoldCleats

Major League Soccer’s (MLS) commitment to youth development and expansion continues with the latest announcement of new clubs set to join MLS NEXT for the 2025-26 season. As the league grows, so does its pipeline of young talent, fueling the future of North American soccer.

So, who are these new clubs, and what do they bring to the table? Let’s break it down.

The New Faces of MLS NEXT

MLS NEXT, the developmental league shaping the future stars of MLS, has officially announced its 2025-26 expansion clubs. These new additions further expand MLS's footprint across the U.S. and Canada, offering elite academy prospects a structured pathway to professional soccer.

Clubs Joining MLS NEXT in 2025-26

• ALBION SC Colorado (Boulder/Denver) – U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, U19
• Chattanooga FC (Chattanooga, Tenn.) – U13, U14, U15
• Huntsville City FC (Huntsville, Ala.) – U13, U14
• Michigan Futbol Academy (Grand Rapids, Mich.) – U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, U19
• Northern Virginia Alliance (Leesburg, Va.) – U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, U19
• The Football Academy (Florham Park, N.J.) – U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, U19
• Tulsa Greenwood SC (Tulsa, Okla.) – U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, U19

These clubs will compete in various age groups, ensuring that talented young players receive the coaching, competition, and exposure needed to take their game to the next level.

What This Means for MLS and Youth Soccer

🌍 Expanded Talent Identification

By welcoming new regions into MLS NEXT, the league continues its mission of identifying and developing top talent. With additional clubs in Virginia, Missouri, Michigan, Alabama, and California, more players will have direct access to a professional pathway.

🏆 Raising the Level of Competition

MLS NEXT has already produced top homegrown signings, many of whom are now making an impact in MLS. These new clubs will add to the depth and diversity of competition, ensuring that players consistently face high-level opposition.

⚽ Stronger Pipeline to the Pros

With MLS clubs increasingly looking to their academies for first-team talent, the importance of MLS NEXT has never been greater. This expansion further solidifies the league's commitment to player development, giving young athletes a clearer route to professional soccer.

Why This Matters for GoldCleats Players

For young players dreaming of a career in soccer, these MLS NEXT expansions mean more opportunities. At GoldCleats, we’re always focused on helping the next generation of talent get scouted, develop their skills, and take the next step in their soccer journey.

💡 What You Can Do

• ✅ Track These Clubs – This is your chance to get noticed!
• ✅ Keep Developing – MLS NEXT is looking for the best, so make sure you're constantly improving your game.
• ✅ Showcase Your Talent – Use GoldCleats to build your profile, share highlights, and get on the radar of MLS NEXT scouts.

Final Thoughts: The Future is Bright

MLS’s expansion into new markets is another huge win for youth soccer in North America. With these nine new clubs joining MLS NEXT, more players than ever will have the chance to develop, compete, and ultimately reach the professional level.

At The Boot Room by GoldCleats, we’ll be keeping an eye on these new clubs and the talent they produce. Stay tuned for more updates, insights, and player spotlights as we head into the 2025-26 season!

🚀 Dream Big. Train Hard. Get Scouted.

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