What is the difference between MLS next and MLS next pro? There is a big difference between MLS next and MLS next pro, read to find out all you need to know about Major League Soccer Next and Mega League Soccer Next Pro. We also discussed some of the FAQs about MLS in general, so read carefully!
What is the difference between MLS next and MLS next pro
MLS Next
Originally abbreviated MLS Next but now being stylized as MLS NEXT. MLS NEXT stands for Mega League Soccer and it is a youth soccer league based in the United States and Canada being controlled, managed, and organized by the Major League Soccer.
Difference between MLS next and MLS next pro by year of introduction
 MLS next was introduced by the league in the year 2020.
The system was introduced as a successor to the U.S. Soccer Development Academy.
It was made to cover the following age groups
- Under-13Â age group,
- Under-14age group,
- Under-15age group ,
- Under-16age group
- Under-17age group and
- under-19 age group.
 The league presently hosts 590 teams spread across 133 clubs.
Major League Soccer announced the introduction of MLS Next officially on the 8th of September , 2020. So far, there are 489 teams across 113 clubs and six (6) recorded age groups. Few days later (On September 11, 2020) MLS Next organized their inaugural matches were and it took place at the Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado, . The match was between Colorado Rapids Under 17 age groups and Real Colorado’s Under 17 age groups. Colorado Rapids Under 19 age groups and Real Colorado’s Under 19 age groups also played. Additional  24 clubs were included in the league and  that expanded the additional age groups for the 16  clubs that are already existing for the 2021–2022 seasons, this took place on  the 11th day of June , 2021.
 MLS next pro year of introduction
MLS next pro was introduced in 2022. The scheme was introduced by Major League Soccer. MLS NEXT Pro is a soccer league for professional soccer men player based in the United States and Canada. They are the completion for pro player pathway beginning  from MLS NEXT to the MLS first teams. Earlier in 2021 December , Major League Soccer made the announcement for MLS Next Pro as a new professional league for the completion of integrated player pathway beginning from MLS Next then to the MLS first teams. The league is made up of 21 teams and their initial season started from in 2022.
MLS NEXT Pro is making huge progress since inception and the league is striving to keep the game growing through the introduction of  innovation and diversity into the picture, they are strong advocates of professional soccer with multiple opportunities for on and off the field experience . The MLS NEXT Pro third season celebration is slated for 2024 encompassing twenty nine (29) teams, twenty seven (27) MLS-affiliated and two (2) independent (Carolina Core FC & Chattanooga FC). Most matches for MLS NEXT Pro are broadcasted on the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, this is because they are in partnership with Apple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MLS have a minor league?
A minor league that is below MLS is the USL Championship (USLC). USLC is a Division II league and they are minor league below Major League Soccer.
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How much do MLS players make?
MLS players earn huge paychecks. As of the year 2023, for all MLS leagues, the Toronto FC league had the top-most average player salary with estimates up to 1.1 million USD. on an annual basis.
What does Messi say about MLS?
Messi has a lot to say about MLS, during an interview, he addressed MLS as a ‘minor league’
How to join MLS soccer?
One sure way to become part of MLS soccer is to engage in open MLS tryout for clubs.
Can MLS join UCL?
MLS teams are not eligible for champions league because they play in the USA. The UEFA Champions League(UCL) is a league organized by UEFA and UEFA is the body in charge of European football.
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How do you get signed to MLS?
To get signed to MLS just like in other leagues, you should follow a college route as that is the best for pro game. On a yearly basis, the best and outstanding College/University Soccer players from NJCAA, NCAA, and NAIA get  signed by different clubs. They are usually signed through MLS Draft or NWSL Draft. An average of ninety (90) men’s players and thirty-six ( 36) women’s players are included in the draft list by MLS clubs and NWSL clubs, it usually takes place on January .