© FC Bayern
The DFL has decided to introduce a new voluntary U21s competition for clubs in the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 from 2026/27. The new format complements the existing league system without dividing reserves teams and is aimed at players in the transition phase between U17 and U21 level. Up to four older players may be fielded per team, for example to promote young talent or to provide practice after injuries.
Two separate leagues are planned, with the winners qualifying for a final tournament. Flexible squad regulations and variable match dates are intended to offer clubs the greatest possible flexibility. Matches may be played at neutral venues and behind closed doors in order to keep organisational costs to a minimum.
Jochen Sauer, FC Bayern director of youth development, who actively collaborated on the concept in the expert commission: “Young players need regular playing time at the highest level as much as possible in order to develop further. Due to the league system in Germany, in which reserve teams are not allowed to play higher than the third division, we want to enable the professional clubs under the DFL to offer their young players even more playing practice at a challenging level. We can achieve this with this U21 league without placing unnecessary additional strain on the players, especially as participation will be completely voluntary for the clubs. Each club can decide individually and based on squad sizes what is best for its players. It is a great sign that, together with all professional clubs and with the support of the German FA, we have achieved a good and, above all, rapid improvement in our current competition structure.”
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