It's fair to say 2026 has been the year of the youngster in MLS, with emerging stars becoming key contributors across the league.

But with only 22 spots available, some of MLS's best players aged 21 or under missed the final list. Or perhaps it's a little too soon for their inclusion.

Here are 12 players who missed the cut, but certainly could be in the running next year.

Perhaps the next homegrown player to emerge from the Philadelphia Union Academy, Jakupovic has the profile of a top attacking prospect.

The 17-year-old striker recently scored his first goal for the Union and has starred for the United States at various youth levels. He's also been linked with some of Europe's highest-profile teams, including Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea.

After signing a homegrown contract with FC Cincinnati in April 2026, Chirila has stepped into the Orange & Blue backline and played beyond his years.

The 18-year-old center back has represented the United States at various youth international levels, and even netted a long-range blast for his first MLS goal.

Ever since signing his first homegrown deal with Vancouver in September 2025, Elloumi has kept trending upwards.

The 19-year-old homegrown forward helped the Whitecaps make MLS Cup 2025 presented by Audi and fulfilled a childhood dream this summer by representing Tunisia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Miller has enjoyed a breakout campaign with the LA Galaxy, establishing himself as a first-team regular and continuing to extend his US youth international career. 

Still only 19, the two-way fullback looks poised to follow Galaxy Academy products Julián Araujo and Mauricio Cuevas in reaching the next level.

Still only 20 years old, Badwal is one of the most experienced players on this list.

The Vancouver Whitecaps homegrown midfielder has been a consistent fixture at club level, having already made 65 appearances since debuting in 2024. He's also an emerging Canadian international, earning several looks from head coach Jesse Marsch.

Could Benji Flowers follow in the footsteps of Cavan Sullivan and become the next young superstar to emerge from MLS?

There's considerable buzz around the homegrown forward, who signed his first-team deal in July at age 15. He’s reportedly inked a pre-contract with English powerhouse Chelsea and is also a highly touted dual-national prospect, having represented both the United States and Mexico at youth levels.

Already a starter for Benin's national team, the 19-year-old forward has demonstrated a keen eye for goal with 2g/4a in around 700 minutes this season.

Primarily a right winger, Aloko can play anywhere across the front line and has shown flashes of brilliance in Charlotte alongside fellow youngster Morrison Agyemang.

Abu Farki is the most expensive player on this list, having recently made a reported $6 million transfer to the Colorado Rapids from Maccabi Tel Aviv.

A full Israeli international, the 20-year-old brings a strong work rate in addition to goalscoring prowess and is expected to be a key piece in Colorado for years to come.

The 18-year-old defender, who joined Inter Miami on loan in July, has already earned his first two caps with Ecuador's national team.

Caicedo brings an imposing frame and has showcased massive potential for club and country.

Alongside fellow homegrowns Julian Hall and Adri Mehmeti, Dos Santos has become a key starter for Red Bull New York in 2026.

The left back loves to get forward and press high, then provide assists for his teammates. Dare we call him the next John Tolkin, RBNY fans?

After proving himself at Brazilian Série A side Internacional, the 19-year-old Otavio has shown that his skill set translates to MLS. 

The rangy holding midfielder is strong in and out of possession, rewarding Orlando City’s faith in using a U22 Initiative slot on him.

The 19-year-old homegrown winger is enjoying a breakout season for Real Salt Lake, catching the eye with his finishing instincts.

Hezarkhani has tallied 3g/2a in nearly 1,110 minutes this year, and will look to follow in the footsteps of now-former teammate Zavier Gozo.