US Soccer Declines MLS’s Request To Allow Next Pro Teams To Replace Lionel Messi & Other First-Team Players In the U.S. Open Cup

The US Soccer Federation has given a massive blow to MLS’s latest request, with the league hoping that teams could field their Next Pro teams for the US Open Cup. The federation, however, has no plans to allow that to happen. If the request had been approved, big names such as Lionel Messi, and Giorgio Chiellini amongst others could have been replaced by Next Pro Team players.

It is reported that the US Federation did not take too kindly to MLS’s request, as the US Open Cup has always been the federation’s biggest event during the calendar year. However, it seems like MLS is not ready to accept the decision, and the league stated it will try to find a pathway to address its concerns.

US Federation shut the door on MLS’s latest request

The US Soccer Federation has been on somewhat of a standstill with MLS for a while now. With the league requesting the federation to allow MLS sides to replace big names with Next Pro teams, the association did not take too kindly to their request.

They released an official release stating, “Major League Soccer has requested to allow MLS Next PRO teams to represent MLS in the 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. After thoughtful consideration, we have informed MLS that the U.S. Soccer staff recommendation, which was adopted by the Pro League Taskforce, is that the request be denied.”

The statement further added, “As we move forward, we will continue our review of the Open Cup to ensure it aligns with the U.S. Soccer strategic pillars. We remain committed to addressing the needs and concerns of all of our members, including MLS, and other stakeholders, to enhance and improve the U.S. Open Cup.”

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With the US Federation blocking MLS’s attempt to pull away their biggest names, the league quickly issued an official statement claiming the league will try to find a viable solution to provide a platform to the next generation.

MLS is not happy with US Federation’s decision

MLS was quick to respond to USSF’s media release as the side issued its statement just minutes after the national governing body. Top brass at MLS believe that the US Open Cup can be a big platform for young talent, with their request ultimately benefiting the USMNT.

In their statement, MLS claimed, “MLS is committed to finding a viable solution for the 2024 tournament and is working to find a pathway that addresses its goals and concerns. Moving forward, MLS will remain focused on increasing opportunities for up-and-coming players. A key component of the league’s player development strategy that ultimately benefits the U.S. national team program.”

It will be interesting to see if the two parties can agree on the future of the tournament. While the US Federation wants the league to have their top names participate in the US Open Cup, MLS wants the tournament to serve as a platform for young players.

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