# 21. Can scouting software tell us whether a player is eligible to sign for MLS or NWSL?


**Treat provider information as a lead, not a roster-compliance determination.** MLS publishes its own roster and acquisition rules, while the NWSL rules page reviewed links its 2026 Competition Rules and Regulations with a 24 June update. ([mlssoccer.com](https://www.mlssoccer.com/about/roster-rules-and-regulations?trk=article-ssr-frontend-pulse_little-text-block))

Keep three decision records separate:

1. **Football suitability:** role, performance evidence and uncertainty.
2. **Commercial availability:** verified contract position, authorised representation and current negotiation information.
3. **Registration and roster compliance:** league rules, applicable windows and required approvals.

For a supplier claiming eligibility functionality, ask:

- Which rule version is used?
- When was the player record last checked?
- What is the underlying source?
- Which exceptions are supported?
- Who resolves conflicting or missing information?
- Does the output distinguish a possible route from confirmed eligibility?

Do not carry an old rule into a new procurement brief. In particular, do not apply historic NWSL draft assumptions to the current recruitment workflow. ([nwslsoccer.com](https://www.nwslsoccer.com/news/nwsl-announces-creation-of-combines-for-top-prospects?utm_source=openai))

The club’s authorised football-operations and legal personnel should control the final compliance decision.