Major League Soccer today announced that 22 coaches recieved their Elite Formation Coaching License (EFCL) in partnership with the French Football Federation (FFF). Among the recipients is Atlanta United's U-16 Head Coach Will Bates, who completed one of the most highly regarded and rigorous soccer coaching courses in the world. The fifth iteration of the EFCL ran a total of seven weeks over an 18-month period, which culminated at the famed INF Clairefontaine outside of Paris in August.
As part of the program, coaches were required to submit a final project that incorporated classroom and on-field instruction, illustrating their ability to master teachings over the course of the 18 months. The projects were then evaluated based off the candidates’ ability to implement a principle of play within their environment or team.
Overall, the EFCL platform has played a pivotal role in MLS Homegrown development and the growth of several head coaches, assistants, and general managers throughout MLS and MLS NEXT Pro. FC Cincinnati 2 head coach Tyrone Marshall, who was a recipient of the Elite Formation Coaching License this year, was previously named the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro Coach of the Year on October 16. Additionally, Chicago Fire FC academy head coach Selim Talbi, helped the Fire’s U15 side win an MLS NEXT Cup championship in June before completing the program.
Coaches and front office members who previously received their Elite Formation Coaching License have laid strong coaching foundations across MLS and MLS NEXT Pro over the last decade. Notable graduates include current MLS head coaches Nico Estévez (Austin FC), Wilfried Nancy (Columbus Crew), and Greg Vanney (LA Galaxy).
