The newly formed U16 Boys National Team provides a vital rung in the ladder between the early formative stages of the boys national team and the crucial U17 cycle, which provides players their first opportunity at a World Cup. It may be an in-between team, but it’s no less important.

The U16 BNT was recently in Turkey to play a series of friendlies, which allowed a handful of bourgeoning first team hopefuls to find their international legs. The current U17 cycle hits its zenith later this year with the World Cup, so this crew is looking ahead to next year and perhaps residency as well.

Homegrown Watch is all U16 BNT today. This trio of national teamers tied to MLS academies is as highly touted at this age range as it gets. All three have oodles of pro potential.