Last year, Orlando City announced the withdrawal of the team’s developmental side, Orlando City B, from USL League One. The presumption was that the team would be joining a new MLS reserve league in 2021. However, the global pandemic and MLS collective bargaining agreement negotiations make it more likely that the reserve league will start in 2022, putting the club in a difficult position.
Minnesota United’s new development structure had all but confirmed the new reserve league and the club has repeatedly proven its new commitment to youth development. Orlando was also joined in withdrawing from USL League One by the Portland Timbers and Philadelphia Union.