Why LAFC and ATL UTD are good for American soccer

Everyone loves to hate newly created clubs with an immense amount of money that are placed straight into MLS, and they have an argument. However, I think Atlanta United and LAFC are very similar clubs and are very good for soccer in the US. Here's why.

1. Emphasis on youth development

These clubs are the only two in MLS history that have put out an academy team over a year before the first team will play a game. They have shown developing young players is incredibly important, a value that is lost on many MLS clubs. Establishing a good academy will prove to have many benefits for both of these clubs. Atlanta winning the U15/U16 national championship and their first year is a massive accomplishment.

2. World class facilities

Both clubs are moving into incredibly nice and brand new stadiums soon (LAFC's soccer specific stadium to cost $250 million, Atlanta United's stadium that's shared with the Falcons cost $1.2 billion). They have also built (or are building) world class training facilities for the first team and the academy to use (LAFC's to cost $30 million, Atlanta United's cost $60 million). Investing in these facilities is the future of American soccer and these clubs are leading the charge.

3. Young talent that produces
Since LAFC has yet to sign any notable players, this section will be Atlanta United specific. Many MLS teams use their designated player spots to buy almost retired legends who rarely produce (*cough* Pirlo *cough*) but Atlanta is different. United's three designated players (Miguel Almiron, Josef Martinez, and Hector Villalba) have an average age of 23, have combined for 25 goals (far and away the top three scorers on the team), and 12 assists. By buying young DP's, Atlanta was able to invest in the present and the future at the same time. They've built a great model for other MLS clubs.

4. Build local support
LAFC is already excelling at becoming supporter oriented. They announced the supporters sections will have safe-standing/rail seating as well as $20 tickets for supporters and The 3252 Supporters Union. In the time leading up to the first season, they have held "Black and Gold" rallies where they keep excitement and involvement in the club up. Atlanta United and their supporters groups held similar events before United kicked off, including a large launch party for their brand and kit reveals and supporting the academy at select games. Keeping fans interested is crucial in building sustainable support.

LAFC and Atlanta United have built a model for large success and growth for American soccer. They are ushering in MLS 3.0 and it's time other clubs follow.