Generation adidas Cup 2026: MLS NEXT Announces Best XIs for U-15 and U-16 Age Groups

TITLE: Generation adidas Cup 2026: MLS NEXT Announces Best XIs for U-15 and U-16 Age Groups

MLS NEXT has named its Best XIs for the U-15 and U-16 age groups following the 2026 Generation adidas Cup in Florida. Valencia CF dominated the U-15 side with four selections, including two individual award winners, while FC Copenhagen and Red Bull Bragantino split honors in the U-16 bracket. Several young stars from MLS clubs and international teams stood out with standout performances and key contributions.

The U-15 Best XI features four players from Valencia CF, including Defensive MVP Iker Frías Barrajon and MVP Pablo Jiménez Luque. Shane Jagtiani of LAFC led the age group in scoring with four goals, helping his team reach the semifinals. Cristopher Batiz of the Seattle Sounders FC also impressed, scoring six goals across the tournament to earn Top Scorer honors. Mason Moskau, the right-back for Atlanta United, played a key role in the quarterfinal run, combining defensive stability with attacking flair.

Marco Vita of D.C. United stood out in central midfield, scoring the game-winning goal against FC Barcelona. Jayden Delgado of Charlotte FC was instrumental in the team’s semifinal run, offering both defensive grit and attacking creativity. Sloan Earl of Real Salt Lake added five goals across group and consolation matches, reinforcing his status as a rising star.

In the U-16 Best XI, FC Copenhagen and Red Bull Bragantino led the way. Villads Bille, the goalkeeper for Copenhagen, was a key contributor as the Danish side made a strong showing. Joebis Ferreira Pereira of Red Bull Bragantino and Tristan Christensen of Copenhagen both earned individual awards, with Pereira taking MVP and Christensen claiming Defensive MVP. Santiago Leandro Descarrega of Boca Juniors was the top scorer with six goals, including a hat trick in the group stage.

Kane Kraus of St. Louis CITY SC added four goals in the group stage, including a game-winner in the consolation matches. Simeon Cruickshank of Vancouver Whitecaps FC scored four times, including two decisive goals in the group stage. Gonzalo Riveras of Atlanta United and Abdoulaye Diop of Philadelphia Union also made their mark with strong performances in midfield.

These young talents will continue to develop through the MLS NEXT system, with many expected to play key roles in their respective club academies and national youth teams. The next step for several of these prospects will be competing in regional and national tournaments, where they can further showcase their potential on the field.