This effort by the top flight in the States and Canada is to begin in March of '22, with all MLS teams joining the next year, as well as outside teams. The season is expected to end come Sept. The goal of the league is to have a new way for the players to get to highest level in the land. Young athletes are now able to show themselves as they vie for the MLS NEXT Pro title.
It will being with Western Conference teams:
Colorado
Dallas
Houston
KC
Minnesota
Portland
SLC
San Jose
Seattle
St. Louis
Vancouver
In the East:
Chicago
Cincy
Columbus
Miami
New England
NYCFC
Orlando
Philly
Rochester
Toronto
Come 2023 the following teams will also join, along with independent teams':
Atlanta
Austin
Charlotte
DC
LA
LAFC
Of these initial 21 teams in year one, they will get 2 dozen games, with 8 making the playoffs
The league looks forward to Advancement. Always moving ahead, raising their level, advancing the game.
MLS NEXT is dedicated to, speeding the coming time of the game on the continent, strengthening at the grass roots. Building upon opportunities for change and inclusion. Finishing a method to go pro. Coming International games and competitions.
"MLS NEXT Pro is a new professional league that establishes a unified and accelerated professional pathway between our academies and the first teams of MLS and independent clubs throughout North America. Off the field, MLS NEXT Pro will provide a platform to drive forward diversity, develop and nurture talent, while bringing soccer to new markets and new fans around the country."
— Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber
NYCFC Sporting Director, David Lee, said:
“This is a hugely exciting moment and another important milestone in the history of our Club. We very much support the foundation of MLS Next Pro. By participating in this new league, we will create a more structured pipeline for homegrown and young players to gain invaluable experience in a competitive and professional environment and bridge the gap between our successful youth Academy and our First Team. This will help set up our Club for continued success while staying true to one of the founding pillars on which NYCFC was formed by developing the next generation of talent. We are excited to be one of the participating clubs this inaugural season.”
NYCFC CEO, Brad Sims, continued:
“NYCFC is committed to growing soccer and MLS NEXT Pro will be a gamechanger for our country’s young talents. While there are still many details to be finalized in the coming months, which we will share with our fans as soon as possible, we know it is imperative to be involved in this inaugural season.
“As we continue to fuel passion for the world’s game and build New York City into one of the soccer capitals of the world, engaging the next generation of players with a structured pathway to MLS will be vital to accomplishing this mission. This league will play in front of supporters, providing an incredible opportunity for both NYCFC and soccer fans across New York City with an opportunity to watch the next generation of talent.”