Huntsville City FC's Alan Carleton named to MLS NEXT Pro Best XI

Huntsville City FC standout Alan Carleton was named to the MLS NEXT Pro Best XI on Thursday.

The 20-year-old midfielder was honored as one of the best players in the league after an impressive 2025 campaign, scoring 12 goals and adding six assists. His eighteen goal contributions are tied for the eighth-most in the league, with Huntsville earning a spot in the playoffs for the first time in club history. They'll take on local rival Chattanooga FC on Sunday night in the First Round.

In addition to a staring role with Huntsville, Carleton became the first player from the club to represent Nashville SC in MLS earlier this year. He made two appearances for the parent club in league play, called up to the first team four times in total.

Alan Carleton on MLS debut: “I’ve been working hard for this”

The 20-year-old Atlanta United academy product became the first Huntsville City player to appear for Nashville SC in an MLS match

SixOneFive SoccerBen Wright

Additionally, Jordan Knight was listed as an honorable mention. The versatile defender scored five goals in the regular season, tied for the third-most of any Huntsville player. Knight signed an MLS contract with Nashville SC in September.

Carleton is the first-ever Huntsville player to earn Best XI honors.