MLS Next Pro: The Evolution of Player Development

[@wolfmilkk]

a lot of us in Rochester are just happy to have our team back after 4 years of...nothing. There were multiple benefits to sweeten the deal that turned the ownership's head to MLSNP, and from a business perspective it makes sense. With independent clubs really only caring about home game attendance numbers, the Rhinos traveling away to RBII in front of 300 people doesnt hurt their pockets. However, RBII traveling to Rochester boosts our home attendance by billing it as "watch your home team beat the next MLS stars". On paper it's a no-lose situation

[@Anthony.LaRosa]

I’ve heard from a couple of Rochester fans in the comments the last day or so. From what I’m hearing, similar to what you said, fans are happy that they will be competing again. I’m glad that you guys are going to be back at it, soccer in Rochester 100% deserves a home, and I’m glad they have got the opportunity with a future ahead. Thanks for sharing your view, I really enjoy hearing what you guys have to say

[@jldch26]

NYCFC supporter and actually went to the first NYCFC II game this past weekend (weather was horrible but we support regardless of that), I must say I dislike the penalty shootout after a draw, but at least it's normal penalties vs what they use to do when MLS started. Also like the idea of USL breaking away from MLS, becoming more independent to themselves.

[@Anthony.LaRosa]

That's awesome to hear! I'd love to attend a Crew 2 game to see what it's like in the future.

[@jldch26]

@@Anthony.LaRosa first team players can actually play on the 2nd team too. There was 3 first team squad members playing for us this weekend. I did Columbus away last season. Not much in the city (well I only stayed a night) but beautiful stadium.

[@NarfMcCringle]

i think you're right when you say MLSNP will be a development/reserve league. However, MLS is non-secretly trying to build their own pyramid. MLSNP will remain d3, but an MLS d2 league will almost certainly happen. I think the independent teams that join will make up that d2 league once it has the numbers, and the mls-II teams will stay d3. The no salary cap is very enticing to indie teams like my Rochester Rhinos/RNYFC, and gives a clear path to build up thru selling players which they directly own. Joining USL would just hamper the ambitions and MLSNP lets the club grow as quickly as possible no cap. Shortest answer: we tried USL for 22 years, time for something new. Club>League - Forza Rhinos

[@Anthony.LaRosa]

I wanted to touch in the league rules of MNP, (no salary cap, players contracted to clubs and not the league, etc.) but I ended up taking those parts out. I think that brings up a good point though for teams like Rochester to grow quickly using the less restricted rules. It’ll be awhile till we find out, but I am curious how many independent teams MNP will be looking to add. Appreciate your thoughts!

[@Jmini1088]

do you think mls next pro will over take USL?

[@watchgagootz]

Is this free for talent? Or is it only for talent that can pay? That is the question that separates the US from the top player development countries.

[@sebastianaraque354]

I don't this league will work should have stayed in usl