Elk Grove Soccer Announced as a new MLS Next Club

MLS NEXT Expands; Announces Early Admissions Ahead of 2025-2026 Season

MLS NEXT also announced the division structure and participating teams in the new tier of competition, which was previously unveiled in January. The new tier will feature more than 1,200 teams from more than 220 clubs across regional divisions during the regular season. Of those clubs, more than half previously competed outside of MLS NEXT. 

Regular season play will begin in September 2025, which will be accompanied by regional tournaments and an opportunity to attend MLS NEXT national events, as well as coaching development and education programs.

The regional tournaments will serve as qualifying for a championship event at the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs later in 2026. These events will be marquee talent identification opportunities for college, professional, and national team scouts to evaluate players. Players competing in the new tier will also be eligible to play high school soccer.

A full breakdown of the divisions and participating clubs is available HERE.

If you are interested in joining the MLS – please complete the following form for more information.

Thanks,

Elk Grove Soccer MLS