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)

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)

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