NEW YORK (Monday, April 12, 2021) – Major League Soccer today released the Roster Rules and Regulations for the 2021 MLS Season, including details of the new U22 Initiative as well as parameters to provide players with professional development opportunities in MLS front offices.
With a continued focus on strategic investment in players, MLS clubs will now be able to sign up to three young players, age 22 and younger, to lucrative contracts at a reduced budget charge, decreasing the risk associated with acquiring or retaining players who are still approaching their prime.
While players signing from other professional leagues must be joining on their first MLS contract, the initiative provides enhanced opportunities for Homegrown Players and SuperDraft signings.