The 2019 MLS SuperDraft presented by adidas takes place in Chicago this week, beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Friday, January 11. Hosted in conjunction with the United Soccer Coaches convention, the event includes MLS-led programming during the world's largest gathering of soccer coaches and administrators.
You might be wondering how to track your team's moves – or even who they might be picking – over the next week. Wonder no more, as we've got all the basics covered right here:
Understanding the Basics: Selection order, eligible players, Generation adidas
The SuperDraft is similar to any other professional sports draft and provides an opportunity for MLS clubs to acquire new, young talent through four rounds of selections. The selection order is determined by club's previous season's performance, with the exception of newcomer FC Cincinnati who will be granted the first pick. Potential picks are comprised of players who have finished out their NCAA career or have forfeited their collegiate pursuits in hopes of making it pro.
Following the SuperDraft, rounds 3 and 4 of the selection process will be conducted via conference call at a later date. During this time, teams can add any players to their rosters who have completed their college eligibility as well as young and international players who have not already been chosen in earlier rounds.
Each of the 24 MLS clubs will participate in the SuperDraft. Some teams will be able to hold more than one pick in the round, while others may not choose any due to trading or allocation money purposes. Throughout this week, coaches and scouts have been attending the 2019 adidas MLS Player Combine in Orlando City Stadium, looking at young stars who are hoping to break into MLS to showcase their skills.
Also, MLS recently announced the seven players who will make up the 2019 Generation adidas class.
Streaming The SuperDraft
Fans that want to check out the 2019 SuperDraft will have numerous ways to watch. Major League Soccer will begin their live stream at 1 p.m. ET from McCormick Place in Chicago. You can see it live on PhiladelphiaUnion.com, MLSsoccer.com, the official MLS app, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.
2019 Union Selections
The Union enter the 2019 MLS SuperDraft presented by adidas with the No. 13, 29, 37, 61, and 85th overall selections in the draft. Currently three rostered players (Andre Blake, Jack Elliott and Ray Gaddis) are former Union SuperDraft picks.
