The MLS SuperDraft 2026 once again confirmed that college soccer in the United States continues to be a real path to professionalism. In this edition, 90 players were selected by the league’s clubs, among them several players of Latin American descent, a relevant news for the Hispanic community that closely follows the growth of soccer in the country.
Among the notable names is Nikola Markovic, who was selected as the first pick in the draft and joined D.C. United. Subsequently, Ricky Louis and Nicholas Simmonds were selected by FC Dallas, reflecting the cultural diversity that continues to strengthen MLS. Beyond the order of the draft, these cases show how clubs continue to bet on profiles formed in U.S. universities, many of them with Latin roots and with the possibility of representing, in the future, both clubs and national teams.
Jefferson Amaya: Talent with Salvadoran Roots
One of the players with the longest college career is Jefferson Amaya, a 22-year-old midfielder trained at High Point University, now with Real Salt Lake.
Between 2022 and 2025, Amaya played 66 official games, accumulating 5,077 minutes on the field, figures that reflect consistency and confidence on the part of his coaching staff.
Amaya, of Salvadoran descent, represents the classic profile of the college midfielder who makes the leap to MLS via the SuperDraft.
This is thanks to his consistency and tactical discipline, elements that are highly valued in the process of adapting to professional soccer.
Clubs continue to invest in soccer players developed at U.S. universities
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Gilberto Rivera: consistency from midfield
Another relevant name is that of Gilberto Rivera, a 21-year-old midfielder trained at San Jose State University.
Selected by Houston Dynamo FC in the third round, with the 88th overall pick in SuperDraft 2026.
Rivera played 52 games in his last three collegiate seasons, totaling 3,765 minutes.
Of Mexican descent, with parents originally from Nayarit, Rivera received public praise from his college coach, Simon Tobin.
He highlighted its sustained growth and its ability to compete at a high level.
His selection also marked a historic moment for his university, as he became the first Spartan chosen by the Houston Dynamo.
A clear message to the Hispanic community
For young Latinos living in the U.S., the MLS SuperDraft proves that the college path is still a valid option to reach professional soccer.
Beyond the glamour of the international market, these stories confirm that academic and athletic preparation can open real doors in the MLS.
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