[7] In 2009, several USL First Division clubs expressed dissatisfaction with the league's leadership and structure, leading to a significant split.

These clubs formed a breakaway competition called the North American Soccer League (NASL), which aimed to operate as a separate second division under the USSF.

In response, the USSF organized a temporary combined league in 2010 before officially sanctioning the NASL as a separate entity.

[11][12] On February 13, 2025, the USL announced plans to launch a Division I league in 2027 that would exist apart from MLS, pending USSF approval.

They also re-stated their desire to eventually introduce a promotion and relegation system like most other global soccer leagues.

[13] The USL operates three divisions within the U.S. soccer pyramid for men's professional and developmental teams: The USL has a history of organizing leagues and competitions that have since evolved or ceased operations: These competitions show the evolution of the USL from its origins as an indoor soccer league to a modern, multi-tiered system supporting professional and developmental soccer across North America.