The new Major League Soccer-run academy league has a name, and games are now scheduled to begin Sept. 11 around the country.
Officially called MLS NEXT, the platform fills the void left behind by U.S. Soccer when it ceased operating the Development Academy. As the name suggests, it's meant to cultivate up-and-coming talent and advance youth development in North America.
While New England's home to eight MLS NEXT clubs, some local players feature at clubs beyond the region. This story highlights players who fall into that bucket.
If readers have updates on New Englanders at MLS NEXT clubs outside of our six states, please email [email protected] with more information. Also, be sure to check out our preview stories on the U-19, U-17, U-16 and U-15 age groups in New England.