September 01, 2025

Ep 396: MLS Next Initiatives EXPOSED - Playing Time, Talent ID, Scholarship Myths, and More

1 hour 7 minutes

In this episode, we dive into MLS Next's newly announced initiatives aimed at reshaping youth soccer in America.

We break down the four key changes:

1) a scholarship requirement mandating one player per club,

2) an extension of the Pro Player Pathway adding U15 teams,

3) a Talent ID weekend for scouting, and

4) new U13 playing time rules mandating equal minutes.

We argue these initiatives are more about perception and consolidating MLS's monopoly than fostering true player development.

We highlight how the scholarship rule fails to address the pay-to-play barrier, the Talent ID weekend risks non-MLS clubs losing talent, and the playing time mandate mimics recreational soccer, potentially harming competitive development.

We advocate for a free-market system with promotion and relegation, asserting it would incentivize clubs to fund talent and elevate competition, potentially making MLS the world's top league.

Packed with bold insights and real-world examples, this episode is a must-listen for coaches, parents, and players navigating the youth soccer landscape. And media who actually care about learning and being truthful in their coverage.

00:00 Intro

03:20 MLS Next Initiative #1 – Scholarshipping Players

10:23 Sub: How Pro/Rel Solves this Problem

12:01 Initiative #2 – Extension of the “Pro Player Pathway”

14:39 Initiative #3 – “Talent ID Weekend”

16:15 Sub: How MLS Makes Their Scam Sound Good

19:09 Sub: Are Practitioners Also Tricked by the Narrative?

23:30 Initiative #4 – Playing Time Requirement

28:23 Sub: Little Accountability for Players and Families

30:49 Sub: Tab Ramos Provides Context

30:57 Sub: Are MLS Academies Getting Enough Good Competition?

35:25 Should You Choose MLS Next or ECNL?

40:55 Diego Luna vs Jose Gallegos

43:57 Paxton Aaronson

54:17 Why MLS Can Be the Best League in the World

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The post Ep 396: MLS Next Initiatives EXPOSED Playing Time, Talent ID, Scholarship Myths, and More appeared first on 3four3.

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