WHAT MLS ACADEMY SCOUTS ARE LOOKING FOR - AN INTERVIEW WITH PABLO REYES

For young soccer players dreaming of making it to the professional ranks in North America, Major League Soccer academies represent one of the clearest pathways to success. But what exactly are these academy scouts looking for when they evaluate young talent?

We sat down with Pablo Reyes, a veteran scout with over 15 years of experience working with MLS academy systems, to get his insights on what catches a scout's eye and how young players can increase their chances of being noticed.

Technical Ability Is Just the Starting Point

"Obviously, technical ability is important," explains Reyes, "but at the MLS academy level, we assume a certain baseline of technical skills. What separates prospects is how they apply those skills under pressure and in game situations."

According to Reyes, scouts are looking beyond simple ball control and passing accuracy. They want to see how players solve problems on the field and make decisions in real-time.

Game Intelligence and Decision-Making

"A player who consistently makes good decisions, who understands space and timing, will always stand out more than someone who just has flashy skills," says Reyes. "We're looking for soccer IQ - players who can read the game and anticipate what's going to happen next."

This game intelligence manifests in how quickly a player processes information and how they position themselves both with and without the ball.

Mental Attributes Are Crucial

Beyond physical and technical abilities, Reyes emphasizes that mental attributes are perhaps the most important factor in determining which players will succeed at higher levels.

"We closely observe how players respond to adversity. Do they lose focus after making a mistake? Do they take responsibility or blame others? Can they maintain their level of play throughout a full match, even when fatigued?"

Resilience, coachability, and a growth mindset are traits that Reyes says MLS academy scouts actively look for.

Standing Out at Showcases and Trials

For players hoping to catch a scout's eye at showcase events or trials, Reyes offers this advice: "Play your game, don't try to be someone you're not. Too many players think they need to do something spectacular, but forcing highlight-reel moments often leads to poor decisions."

Instead, Reyes suggests focusing on consistency, playing simple but effective soccer, and demonstrating awareness of team tactics and positioning.

The Importance of Character

Finally, Reyes notes that character evaluations have become increasingly important in the scouting process.

"We talk to coaches, teammates, and even observe how players interact with parents and officials. A player's character off the field often translates to how they'll perform and develop within our system. We're investing in the whole person, not just the athlete."

This holistic approach to talent identification reflects how MLS academies are evolving to not just find the best players of today, but to develop professionals who can succeed in the increasingly competitive world of professional soccer.