Julian Holl’s Impact on Player Development in MLS

Julian Holl’s two goals in last week’s U.S. Open Cup match have reaffirmed his role on the field, showcasing the trajectory for player development established by Major League Soccer (MLS).

It’s not surprising that former Red Bulls players are stepping up as vital figures in both MLS NEXT and MLS NEXT Pro, influencing the league’s direction.

Luis Robles, a past goalkeeper for the Red Bulls, now serves as the general manager of sports for MLS NEXT, while Ali Curtis, the former sports director for the club, holds the position of president for MLS NEXT Pro and executive vice president of MLS sports development. Together, these leagues form the core player development framework that MLS has built in the last five years, aiming to provide elite players with a clear path to professional soccer.

Robles expressed a desire to offer “clarity” to young players entering MLS NEXT. This initiative targets players at the U13 level from MLS academies, as well as elite academies not directly tied to MLS, paving their way to MLS NEXT Pro—a sort of minor league for MLS—and, ultimately, to top-tier Major League Soccer teams.

Currently, MLS NEXT includes 29 MLS Academy teams and 238 Elite Academies. On the other hand, MLS NEXT Pro comprises 30 teams, which include 27 MLS affiliated clubs and 3 independent ones. This structure mirrors the developmental paths seen in leagues like the NBA and NHL.

“When kids aged 12, 13, or 14 start dreaming about playing for their national team or going pro, this framework makes their next steps clear,” Robles explained. He pointed out that with the introduction of MLS NEXT Pro, it will be easier for aspiring players to understand the necessary steps to realize their ambitions.

MLS has celebrated early success from its player development strategy, especially since the launch of MLS NEXT Pro in 2025. Over 240 players from MLS NEXT Pro have signed contracts with MLS first teams, just over half of whom emerged from the academy system.

In addition, nearly 20 players have been transferred or loaned internationally, and during 2025, about 120 individuals with MLS NEXT Pro experience received calls to senior and youth national teams worldwide.

Robles finds a sense of pride in these achievements—not only as a former player but also as a parent with kids involved in soccer.

“I bring my perspective as a former professional, as a league official aiming to make a difference, and as a parent,” he remarked. “You combine these experiences, balancing professional insights with the viewpoints of parents who express their concerns and frustrations. It’s quite a mix, but it shapes the way I approach my role at MLS NEXT and NEXT Pro.”

This development surge coincides perfectly with soccer’s rising prominence in the U.S. as the World Cup approaches, set to unfold in North America this summer. Curtis mentioned that this event is poised to significantly impact player development across the country.

“We anticipate more kids getting involved in soccer than ever, and we have the necessary infrastructure through NEXT Pro,” Robles noted. He added, “For those who have never played soccer before, watching the World Cup could inspire them. They’ll see what’s possible and wonder how they can get into the sport. Awareness of professional soccer in the U.S., particularly through Major League Soccer and its youth league, will only propel the country closer to becoming a footballing powerhouse.”