From Breakout Stars to Future Pros — These Are the Names You’ll Remember

The 2024-25 MLS NEXT season delivered on every level, showcasing a new generation of rising stars across all age groups. With elite talent surfacing from coast to coast, the bar for youth development in the United States has never been higher. Now, after months of high-stakes competition, breakthrough performances, and unforgettable moments, we unveil the Best XI from each age category — U15, U16, U17, and U19 — recognizing players who made an undeniable impact through performance, team success, and long-term potential.

In the U15 age group, Philadelphia Union’s Kenan Livadic anchored his team’s backline with poise and big-game mentality, including heroic penalty saves during the MLS NEXT Cup. Colorado Rapids' Nathan Tchoumba solidified his place as a top 2010-born prospect with an impressive combination of versatility, height, and vision in the heart of defense. At St. Louis City SC, Owen Jorgensen emerged as one of the most reliable defenders in the country and earned multiple U.S. youth national team call-ups. Another standout defender was Christopher Thompson of Philadelphia Union, who impressed with his overlapping runs, precise crosses, and steady defensive contributions.

Atlanta United’s David Ilevbare brought control to midfield, showcasing a rare blend of strength and tactical intelligence, while Ezra Mahteme of San Jose Earthquakes dazzled with his creative footwork and earned promotion to the U16s midseason. Perhaps the biggest breakout came from Abdoulaye Diop, also of Philadelphia Union, whose physical dominance and passing range drew early comparisons to elite midfielders like Yaya Touré. Edison Niles was the brain behind St. Louis City SC’s semifinal run, operating as a visionary No. 10 with technical precision. On the wings, LA Galaxy’s Ikenna Chidebe was a constant threat, coming up clutch in key MLS NEXT Cup matches, while Liam Stribling helped Nashville SC make history with his skill and composure in the final third. Kane Kraus led the St. Louis attack with ruthless efficiency, emerging as one of the top young strikers in the nation.

At the U16 level, Atlanta United’s James Donaldson delivered a standout campaign between the posts, most notably in the MLS NEXT Cup final against Real Salt Lake. Columbus Crew’s Prince Forfor was again among the best left backs in the country, combining pace and discipline on both ends of the pitch. Kevin Keita of Orlando City Seminole stood out with timely goals and consistent defending, while LA Galaxy’s Mateo McLean combined physicality with emerging technical confidence in a strong campaign that included a GA Cup final appearance. Inter Miami featured heavily at this level, with Nash Dearmin proving to be one of the most improved right backs in the league and Leandro Padilla excelling as a box-to-box midfielder, also starring internationally for Nicaragua.

Atlanta United’s Ignacio Suarez-Couri continued his dominance in midfield, while Real Salt Lake’s Rylan Hashimoto had one of the most decorated seasons in youth soccer — MVP of the GA Cup, critical goals in the MLS NEXT Cup, and commanding performances throughout. His teammate Van Parker earned the MLS NEXT Cup Golden Boot and played with relentless intensity, while Kervon Kerr of Toronto FC lit up the league with an astonishing 58 goals, becoming the most lethal striker of the season. Philadelphia Union’s Olatimoni Gbalajobi, one of the youngest stars on this list, put up massive numbers with the U16s while also scoring for the U.S. U15s against the likes of Mexico and Argentina.

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Among U17s, Inter Miami’s Marco Simion showed his class in net, making critical saves en route to a championship. Real Colorado’s Miles Pattons was an immovable force in defense, while Weston FC’s Eduardo Ayalla added consistency and power to his team’s backline. Baltimore Armour’s Thomas Wysong dominated aerially and brought much-needed grit to his side. Inter Miami’s Cai McLean continued to elevate his game, earning another MLS NEXT All-Star nod and appearances for Jamaica’s U17s.

In midfield, Real Colorado’s Ethan Orchard was a difference-maker, scoring in clutch moments, while Boston Bolts’ Logan Moniz stood out with his creativity and earned national team camp invites. Lukas Robbins, named MVP of the MLS NEXT Cup, was the engine of Inter Miami’s title-winning side, a midfielder who dictated tempo and turned defense into attack with ease. Sacramento Republic’s Jayden Fitzgerald was a key figure in their offense all year, and Barca’s Nolan Tinsley made a name for himself as one of the most electric wingers in the country. Michael Capretto, last year’s top scorer, didn’t slow down either — returning with another standout campaign for FC DELCO.

At the U19 level, LA Galaxy’s Owen Pratt remained the gold standard in goalkeeping, his reflexes and command critical to another title-winning run. Real Salt Lake’s Camron Estala dominated on the defensive end with aerial strength and excellent ball control. José Magaña played a key leadership role for LA Galaxy, delivering in the biggest moments and locking down the backline. Orlando City’s Jackson Platts had a landmark season, adding a GA Cup title and U.S. U18 national team honors to his résumé before signing professionally.

Philadelphia Union’s Jamir Johnson played across multiple levels, including the second team and U.S. U17s, helping guide both squads to major success. Dylan Vanney brought a goal-scoring edge from midfield and was named MVP of the MLS NEXT Cup, also making his mark with LA Galaxy II. Colin Guske was everywhere for Orlando City, balancing defensive duties with intelligent decision-making and debuting in MLS. Gustavo Caraballo had one of the most well-rounded years in the country — winning the GA Cup, reaching the MLS NEXT Cup semis, and earning minutes with the first team. Eric Preston, in his debut season with LA Galaxy, quickly became a top prospect, breaking into the reserve team and the U.S. U17 setup. CSA Bergen’s Amadou Aly Hann stepped up in the final with a goal and forced own goal, showcasing his game-changing ability on the biggest stage. Meanwhile, Justin Ellis capped off a remarkable season with a UEFA Friendship Tournament win for the U.S. U18s and a professional debut for Orlando City.

This class of MLS NEXT stars didn’t just perform — they redefined what youth development in America can look like. The 2024-25 season was more than a competition; it was a declaration. These players aren’t waiting for the future — they’re building it now.