FC Dallas U16s for the 2026 Generation adidas Cup

Now we take a slight detour from the Dallas Cup to the FC Dallas U16s, who, being in an MLS Next “year of emphasis,” are heading to the Generation adidas Cup.

The GA Cup also kicks off this weekend with U15 and U16 age groups at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.

FC Dallas U16s – 2010 (with two 2011s)

Head Coach: Toto Schmugge

The 2010s have won the Dallas Cup twice, as U13s in 2023 and U15s in 2025. It would be great to see them take the GA Cup in 2026.

This group is mostly intact, with just two players – Alex Soira and Angelo Caiafa Barrios – up with the U17s. In return, they get two 2011s coming up, although in different positions.

A bunch of these players have been in US Youth ID camps.

The Buzz’s List

Benjamín Flowers – If you listen to the podcast, you’ve heard me talk about him. He’s the “best talent since Ricardo Pepi” in the Academy. Just made his North Texas SC debut at 14 years, 11 months, and 7 days (2nd youngest ever behind Steel Cook). He’s going to play up a group with the 16s at the GA cup. Can FCD keep him?

Christian Guillén López – The CB in whom I have the most interest in the entire Academy. He’s got the physical profile and the mentality to be the real deal. I expect him to be a homegrown out of the Academy, a rare feat for a center back. US U15 and U16.

Xavier Gómez – A warrior and competitor with a big game mentality and a goal instinct that wins games. Frequent Mexico Youth International.

Tamba Hallie II – The first time I saw him, my soccer brain went “wow.” He’s got the complete package of skill and talent… but too often he drifts in games. He needs to find that competitive fire to bring it every time.

David Jaimes – The keeper I’m most excited about in the Academy. A 2011, he’s playing up at GA Cup. He was over 6’3″ at 13, so he might be 6’5″ by now. He’s already seen 1st team training time.

Justus Jones – Captain for this group last year. Was a US U15 starter through the Concacaf Championship, got a US U16 “futures” call-up recently. He’s tiny and of serious quality. But he needs to grow some soon, or he’s going to get manhandled. It is possible to be too small.