Professional soccer is set to make its debut in Middlesex County, New Jersey, with the relocation of New York City FC II, the minor league affiliate of Major League Soccer's New York City FC. The team will play in a newly constructed 6,500-seat stadium located in Edison, with the inaugural season slated to kick off in July 2027.
Initially named New Jersey MLS NEXT Pro, the team will eventually adopt its own unique identity, including a new name and colors. This move is part of a broader initiative to enhance the sports landscape in Middlesex County, which aims to establish itself as a hub for sports, entertainment, and education.
New York City FC II competes in MLS NEXT Pro, a professional men’s soccer league that serves as the third tier of the U.S. soccer system. Launched in 2022, the league has grown to include 30 teams, with 27 affiliated to MLS clubs and three independent teams. The league's purpose is to provide a pathway for players transitioning from youth academies to professional soccer.
The new stadium will be situated within the NEXUS sports and entertainment district, which is part of a $350 million investment in the area. This district will not only include the soccer stadium but also a multipurpose community venue and student center adjacent to Middlesex College. The NEXUS district is expected to host various events, including youth tournaments, college games, and community activities, further enriching the local sports culture.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill expressed excitement about the arrival of professional soccer, stating, "New Jersey is a soccer state, and we’re proud to welcome our newest professional soccer club to Middlesex County and NEXUS. Starting next summer, New Jerseyans will get to see elite soccer played in our own backyard." This sentiment reflects the growing enthusiasm for soccer in the region, especially following the recent World Cup games held at MetLife Stadium.
The NEXUS district will also feature recreational fields, an adjacent plaza, and dining options, including a restaurant and bar. The stadium itself will boast modern amenities, such as suites, party decks, and family-friendly viewing areas, making it an attractive venue for fans of all ages.
In addition to the professional team, New York City FC plans to launch a youth soccer club in Middlesex County, targeting children aged 3 to 18. This initiative aims to provide local players with access to New York City FC’s coaching methodologies and player development systems, thereby nurturing the next generation of soccer talent in the area.
Tom Glick, CEO of Hometown Soccer Holdings, emphasized the importance of establishing a professional soccer presence in communities like Middlesex County, highlighting the area's rich soccer culture and diversity. The new club will serve as a vital link between local youth players and one of MLS's established development systems, further solidifying New Jersey's commitment to soccer.
As the first MLS NEXT Pro team launched under the Hometown Soccer Holdings initiative, the New Jersey MLS NEXT Pro club represents a significant milestone in the growth of soccer in the state. With plans for a groundbreaking ceremony for the stadium in 2025, local officials are optimistic that this project will transform Middlesex County into an exciting sports destination that attracts fans from across the region.
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