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Top teams in each division
These are the five United States based MLS academies in each age division that I think have a good chance at making noise at the tournament.
Orlando City U-18s
Orlando City dominated MLS NEXT Fest in December, and while many of their top players have been regulars with the second team, word is they’ll all be available for the Generation adidas Cup as the club eyes a serious run at the title. They’re among the most talented squads in the tournament, with standouts across the field—including center forward Justin Ellis, attacking midfielder/winger Gustavo Caraballo, defensive midfielder Colin Guske, and center back Jackson Platts. All four are on professional contracts and have been consistent performers for Orlando’s second team this season. They’ve drawn a tough group with Inter Milan, Columbus Crew, and LAFC, but if they make it out unscathed, they’ll be a real threat to go all the way.
LA Galaxy U-18s
LA Galaxy finished as runners-up in last year’s U-17 division, and they look poised for another deep run this year. Their foundation will be a strong, experienced backline anchored by center-back duo Jose Magana and Kike Martinez, along with goalkeeper Owen Pratt. Offensively, they have enough firepower to make them a tough out for anyone. Their group—which includes Austin FC, Charlotte FC, and Independiente—doesn’t look overly challenging on paper, though it’s hard to gauge what Independiente will bring to the table.
FC Cincinnati U-18s
FC Cincinnati is my dark horse pick to make some noise at the tournament. Their backline—featuring Andrei Chirila, Blake Bayless, and Nico Rivera—is solid, and they’ve bolstered the midfield with the additions of Carson Locker and Santiago Sanchez. One of their top prospects, Ademar Chavez (a 2009), is expected to play up with the U-18s, and striker Stefan Chirila will also be in the squad. If he's locked in, Chirila adds a major goal-scoring threat. Their biggest group-stage test will likely come against NYCFC—the next team on our radar.
NYCFC U-18s
I’ve heard that all of NYCFC’s players on pro deals—aside from Jonny Shore, who’s now firmly part of the first team—will be available for the tournament. Whether they’ll be fully motivated remains to be seen, but in terms of pure talent, this group can go toe-to-toe with anyone. With names like Maximo Carrizo, Drew Baiera, Seymour Reid, and Zidane Yanez, they have serious firepower. Their group-stage clash with FC Cincinnati has all the makings of a spicy matchup.
FC Dallas U-18s
FC Dallas brings a wealth of experience to the U-18 division and has drawn one of the more favorable groups. While they may not feature a roster full of star names, their depth stands out—and that’s a key asset in a tournament like this, where teams face a packed schedule and quick turnarounds.
Chicago Fire U-16s
Chicago Fire is going all-in on their U-16 squad, eyeing a real shot at lifting the trophy. Their top prospect, Robert Turdean—a top-five 2010 who’s been playing up with the U-18s—will drop down for this tournament. They’ve also added Brody Williams, another highly rated 2010 recently signed from Barca Residency, along with standout right back Finn McCraney. Paired with top 2009s like Darris Hyte, Roko Pehar, and Hugo Berg, this group has both depth and high-end talent. Toronto FC and Tokyo FC should pose real challenges in the group stage, but if Chicago starts strong, they'll carry serious momentum into the knockouts.
Philadelphia Union U-16s
Philadelphia Union was one of the toughest teams to break down at MLS NEXT Fest, and they’re bringing a strong squad to the Generation adidas Cup. Their 2009 group features standout talents like goalkeeper Marcelo Avalos, attacking midfielder Willy Ferreira, and striker Malik Jankpuovic. They’ll also be boosted by several highly promising 2010s playing up, including Timoni Gbalajobi, Jayden Kouadio, Abdoulaye Diop, and Landon Mulvenna. On paper, their group-stage opponents shouldn’t pose too much of a threat to this well-rounded side.
LA Galaxy U-16s
LA Galaxy is the only club I’m featuring in both age groups, although Philadelphia Union also has a strong case in the U-18 division. The Galaxy’s U-16 team is bolstered by an impressive 2010 class, including Juan Martinez and Vinny Garcia. Unfortunately, their other top 2010 prospect, Ikenna Chidebe, is likely unavailable due to injury. Their 2009 group is solid as well. I haven’t heard yet which age group Garcia will play with, but given the strength of both teams, his presence would be a significant boost to either side.
New York Red Bulls U-16s
The Red Bulls boast a strong mix of defensive and midfield talent, featuring players like Tobias Szewcyk, Astin Mbaye (who’s headed to AC Milan this summer), Alexito Gomez, Josh Munson, Caleb Simmons, and Paul Sokoloff. The big question for this team is whether they can generate enough offensive output. They’ve often been overly reliant on Paul Sokoloff for their attacking threat. If players like Timmy McFarland and others step up offensively, they’ll be a tough team to beat. I expect them to breeze through their group.
Atlanta United U-16s
Atlanta United’s 2009 class is solid, but it’s their 2010 class that stands out as one of the strongest in the United States. I expect them to be in full force for this tournament, and the depth provided by the 2010 group will be a key asset. The team has been performing well in league play, and I anticipate they’ll be a tough opponent in this tournament.
