In a recent interview, Gabriel Heinze shared his frustration in not having the same usage of his academy players at Atlanta United that he enjoyed with Velez Sarsfield and Argentinos Juniors. Unlike in other leagues around the world, academy players in the United States are not allowed to participate in official league matches above the USL level unless they have signed a professional contract. This likely is intended to retain their amateur status for collegiate eligibility.
When asked about his tendency to play his kids while coaching in Argentina, Heinze added, “The rules here are much different and I don’t agree with them at all.