MLS Next

Inter Atlanta FC is proud to compete in MLS NEXT, the premier platform for elite boys' youth player development in North America. Our first MLS NEXT season began in 2020–2021 with U13 and U14 teams. Since then, our program has continued to grow:

  • In 2024–2025, we expanded to U15.
  • Starting in the 2025–2026 season, Inter Atlanta will field a full MLS NEXT pathway with teams from U13 through U19.


For the first time, all of our top Boys Select teams will now compete in MLS NEXT, creating an unparalleled environment for player growth, national exposure, and advancement.

What is MLS Next?

Launched in 2020, MLS NEXT is the highest level of youth soccer in North America. It reimagines player development through elite competition, top-tier coaching, and a player-first approach that prepares athletes for the next stages of their soccer and personal journeys.



Key features of MLS NEXT include:

  • Elite Competition: Regular season games, regional events, and national showcases featuring the best talent in the U.S. and Canada.
  • Top Training Environment: Access to the best coaching, development resources, and performance standards.
  • National Recognition: MLS NEXT players make up the majority of the current youth national team player pools.
  • Pathway to Professional and Collegiate Soccer: MLS NEXT offers unmatched exposure to scouts, college coaches, and professional academies.

Membership for the 2024–2025 season includes:

  • 29 MLS Pro academies
  • 122 Elite Academies (151 total clubs)
  • Over 16,000 players across the U.S. and Canada

How MLS Next fits Inter Atlanta

At Inter Atlanta FC:

  • Our top Boys Select teams at U13–U19 will compete exclusively in MLS NEXT beginning with the 2025–2026 season.
  • Players will benefit from a professionally structured league environment focused on long-term player development.
  • MLS NEXT participation provides a national platform for college recruiting, professional scouting, and elite-level competition.

By offering a full MLS NEXT pathway, Inter Atlanta ensures the highest standards of development and opportunity for our players.

New MLS Next Competition Tier at Inter Atlanta

Beginning with the 2025–2026 season, Inter Atlanta’s Boys second teams in each age group (U13–U19) will compete in the newly announced MLS NEXT Second Competition Tier.

Key details about the new tier:

  • Expanded Opportunities: A second division within MLS NEXT to create more high-level competitive environments and deepen player development.
  • National Events and Talent ID: Teams will participate in regular season matches, regional showcases, MLS NEXT national events, and player identification programs.
  • Club Resource Optimization: The structure allows clubs greater flexibility with travel, scheduling, and roster management across both first and second teams.
  • Elite Standards Maintained: Operators such as National Academy League (NAL), Elite Academy League (EAL), and others will run the new tier, following the technical standards and program guidelines set by MLS NEXT.
  • Focus on Development: This expansion ensures more players and coaches are part of the highest quality youth soccer ecosystem in North America.

This new tier is another exciting step forward in providing every Inter Atlanta player with the platform to grow, compete, and excel at the highest levels.