Who Are the Top U-17 Academies Ahead of the Spring Season?

1. Philadelphia Union

Philadelphia Union dominates MLS Next with an impeccable record of 10 wins, 2 draws, and 0 losses. The team's dynamic play is fueled by promising prospects, including the standout Cavan Sullivan, an exceptional offensive midfielder. With a strong roster, Philadelphia is a top contender for the MLS Next Cup.

Key Players:

• Cavan Sullivan (2009): A prodigious offensive midfielder known for impeccable passing, technique, dribbling, vision, and acceleration—a complete prospect.

• Jamir Johnson (2008): A winger distinguished by incredible pace, ball control, and clinical finishing.

• Anisse Saidi (2008): Part of the formidable trio with Johnson and Sullivan, Saidi, a classic CF, excels in movements, shooting, and physical play.

• Diego Rocio (2007): Top scorer of the team and an important piece for Philly. He can play as a wing or center forward and stands out for his technical ability, ball striking, and ability to score.

2. Blau Weiss Gottschee

Blau Weiss Gottschee, despite a recent defeat, holds a strong position with 15 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss. Diego Colon, a diminutive yet accurate forward, contributes to the team's success. Expectations are high for this New York team in 2024.

Key Player:

• Diego Colon (2007): A diminutive but accurate CF, Colon not only scores goals but also assists teammates—a complete forward.

3. FC Dallas

FC Dallas U-17 showcases excellence with 9 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss. Gabriel Mendonca, a Brazilian-American midfielder, and Ian Charles, a Puerto Rican international central defender, highlight the team's potential for success in the MLS Next Cup.

Key Players:

• Gabriel Mendonca (2007):The Brazilian-American midfielder impresses with technical and tactical qualities, demonstrating great potential.

• Ian Charles (2007): The Puerto Rican international excels as a central defender, displaying offensive prowess and solid defensive play.

4. Sockers FC

Sockers FC from the Chicago area boasts a remarkable season with 9 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss. Aaron Oreilly, an outstanding center forward, has been the standout player, promising further success in 2024.

Key Player:

• Aaron Oreilly (2007): An outstanding center forward, Oreilly has been the standout player for Sockers FC.

5. Orlando City

Orlando City emerges as a formidable team with 11 wins, 0 draws, and 2 losses. Justin Ellis, recognized as the best CF in MLS Next, and Jackson Platts, an impressive central defender, contribute to the team's strength and potential success.

Key Players:

• Justin Ellis (2007): Recognized as the best CF in MLS Next, Ellis possesses high potential with impressive technical skills, positioning, and footwork.

• Jackson Platts (2007): An impressive central defender displaying excellent timing, passing, and athletic qualities.

6. Barca Residency Academy

Barca Residency excels across all age groups, demonstrating talent identification and skilled coaching. Isaiah Kaakoush, a versatile central defender or defensive midfielder, stands out for his exceptional passing ability, vision, and leadership.

Key Player:

• Isaiah Kaakoush (2008): A versatile central defender or defensive midfielder with exceptional passing ability, vision, and leadership qualities.

7. Los Angeles Football Club

LAFC showcases immense potential with 12 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses. Jude Terry, an impressive box-to-box '8', leads the team with exceptional play on both ends, displaying technical and tactical qualities.

Key Player:

• Jude Terry (2008): An impressive box-to-box ‘8’ known for exceptional play on both ends, displaying great technical and tactical qualities and leadership on the field.

8. Inter Miami CF

Inter Miami, with only one defeat, is on track for a solid 2024. Nick Almeida, a Brazilian-American central defender, and Daniel Pinter, a Hungarian-American forward, show promise with their skills and improvements.

Key Players:

• Nick Almeida (2007): The Brazilian-American central defender exhibits great passing ability, height, and timing. Showing first-team potential.

• Daniel Pinter (2007): The Hungarian-American forward has significantly improved, showcasing speed and technical prowess.

9. San Jose Earthquakes

San Jose Earthquakes, despite irregularities, remain a solid team with 9 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses. Tomo Allen, a center forward with a combination of physical size and technical prowess, adds resilience to the team.

Key Player:

• Tomo Allen (2007): A center forward with a combination of physical size and technical prowess, yet to be called up for any national youth team.

10. LA Galaxy

Reigning MLS Next U-17 champions, LA Galaxy, continue their solid season with 10 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses. Harbor Miller, a dynamic and fast player, contributes to the team's success with impressive athleticism.

Key Player:

• Harbor Miller (2007): A dynamic and fast player with impressive athleticism, contributing to the team’s success.