MLS NEXT Announces Strategic Expansion for the 2022-23 Season

Eight New Clubs Display a Combination of Historic Achievement, Increased Access, and Ambitious Growth Potential

NEW YORK (Tuesday, May 3, 2022) – MLS NEXT today announced the class of eight newly-admitted MLS NEXT clubs as part of the league’s strategic expansion ahead of the 2022-23 season. These new member clubs combine traditionally strong programs, expansion into underserved markets, and an increased presence in talent hotbeds across the United States.

The full list of the eight newly-added clubs include:
ALBION SC Merced, Merced, CA (U13, U14)
FA Euro New York, Brooklyn, NY (U13, U14)
FC Golden State Force, Pomona, CA (Full pathway)
RSL AZ Mesa, Mesa, AZ (U13, U14)
Sacramento United, Sacramento, CA (Full pathway)
San Francisco Seals, San Francisco, CA (U13, U14)
SoCal Reds FC, Irvine, CA (U13, U14)
Triangle United Soccer, Chapel Hill, NC (U13, U14, U16, U19)

“As MLS NEXT further cements its position as the premier youth development league in North America, we are continuously evaluating opportunities to add to our rich talent pool,” said MLS Vice President, Player and Youth Development Fred Lipka. “Through an extensive review process, we identified nine clubs who best embodied our goals at MLS NEXT, including providing access to historically underserved areas of the United States, expanding our diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and reducing the financial burden for the highest potential players in our country. We are excited for these clubs to compete in MLS NEXT and to further enhance our elite player pathway throughout North America.”

Clubs were evaluated on several key factors including the implementation of a defined soccer philosophy, quality of coaching staff, a record of top player production and professionalism of daily environment. Also of vital importance is the club’s ability to provide low or no-cost options for players to participate on MLS NEXT teams, creating opportunities for a more inclusive player pool and promoting and embodying the diversity, equity, and inclusion values of MLS NEXT.

Representing the New York City area, FA Euro NY will also be joining MLS NEXT for the 2022-23 season. FA Euro NY is the first MLS NEXT club located in Brooklyn, NY, and has consistently developed and nurtured elite young players since its inception in 2013, as alumni of this program are now competing in the top professional leagues around the world.

The industry-leading partnership between Adidas and Major League Soccer continues to drive the evolution of player development. adidas will provide the official match ball for all MLS NEXT matches and partners with MLS in advancing the game in North America and creating an atmosphere that supports these young players on the professional pathway.

“FA Euro New York is excited to join MLS NEXT and to take part in the premier player development platform in North America. We are proud to offer this special opportunity to players and families in Brooklyn and are confident that our staff and coaches are prepared to continue to support our players in their development as we take this important step forward. By joining MLS NEXT, we are committing to shaping the next generation of elite North American soccer players. For that opportunity, we would like to thank Fred Lipka, Amy Woff, and the entire MLS NEXT, Youth, and Player Development teams. We are eager to showcase Brooklyn’s incredible talent and diversity and to work with MLS NEXT and our partner clubs to expand access to elite player development experiences.”

“FA Euro New York is excited to join MLS NEXT and to take part in the premier player development platform in North America. We are proud to offer this special opportunity to players and families in Brooklyn and are confident that our staff and coaches are prepared to continue to support our players in their development as we take this important step forward. By joining MLS NEXT, we are committing to shaping the next generation of elite North American soccer players. For that opportunity, we would like to thank Fred Lipka, Amy Woff, and the entire MLS NEXT, Youth, and Player Development teams. We are eager to showcase Brooklyn’s incredible talent and diversity and to work with MLS NEXT and our partner clubs to expand access to elite player development experiences.” – Marco Balsamo, Executive Director