Miguel Almirón Returns to Atlanta United: A Homecoming Celebration 
The MLS NEXT Pro league is set to launch its fourth season on March 7, 2025, featuring 29 teams, including 27 MLS-affiliated clubs and two independent teams. This season promises thrilling matches and a competitive atmosphere as teams vie for playoff positions and the coveted MLS NEXT Pro Cup.
Key Takeaways
- Season Start: The 2025 season kicks off on March 7, 2025.
- Number of Teams: 29 teams will compete, including 27 MLS affiliates and 2 independent teams.
- Match Format: Each team will play 28 matches over 30 weeks.
- Decision Day: The final day of the regular season is scheduled for October 5, 2025.
- Playoff Structure: The playoffs will begin on October 17, 2025, using a unique Pick-Your-Opponent format.
Season Overview
The 2025 MLS NEXT Pro season will feature a total of 406 matches, with each club playing 28 games—14 at home and 14 away. The league has structured the schedule to ensure that clubs face divisional opponents a maximum of three times, while also competing against other intraconference rivals.
Opening Weekend Highlights
The opening weekend will showcase 12 matches across three days:
- March 7: Four matches, including a rematch of the 2024 Western Conference Quarterfinal.
- March 8: Two matches, featuring Inter Miami CF II against Chattanooga FC.
- March 9: Six matches, including a showdown between LAFC2 and Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2.
Notable Matches
- New York Red Bulls II will kick off their season with a road trip, facing Atlanta United 2 on March 7 and Philadelphia Union II on March 17.
- FC Cincinnati 2 will host Toronto FC II in their season opener on March 9.
- Columbus Crew 2 will begin their campaign against Orlando City B on March 9, aiming to build on their previous successes.
Playoff Format
The playoffs will feature 15 single-elimination matches over four weekends, starting on October 17, 2025. The unique Pick-Your-Opponent format allows the top seeds to select their opponents, adding an exciting strategic element to the postseason.
Broadcast Information
Fans can catch the action live on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, which will cover the majority of regular season matches, all Decision Day matches, and playoff games. This partnership aims to enhance the viewing experience for soccer enthusiasts across the globe.
As the countdown to the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro season begins, anticipation builds among fans and players alike. With a competitive lineup and innovative broadcasting, this season promises to be one of the most exciting yet in the league’s history.
Sources
- New York Red Bulls II Announce 2025 MLS NEXT Pro Schedule | New York Red Bulls II, New York Red Bulls.
- FC Cincinnati 2 announce 2025 MLS NEXT Pro regular season schedule | FC Cincinnati 2, FC Cincinnati.
- MLS NEXT Pro’s fourth season to kick off March 7 | MLSSoccer.com, MLSsoccer.com.
- Sporting KC II and MLS NEXT Pro announce 2025 regular season schedule | Sporting Kansas City, Sporting Kansas City.
- MLS NEXT Pro releases 2025 Crew 2 schedule | Columbus Crew, Columbus Crew.
