The Goal of the Year debate in MLS NEXT Pro is a tradition that never truly ends.
Each week, fans and members of the league’s editorial staff discuss their favorite goals of the Matchweek, from long-range efforts to solo runs, there’s a new candidate every time MLS NEXT Pro action takes place.
This season featured its fair share of spectacular goals, but only one could claim the Goal of the Year crown.
Past winners include Johnny Klein (St Louis CITY2) in 2023 and Jesús Ibarra (Chattanooga FC) in 2024, and now Atlanta United 2's Patrick Weah joins that exclusive list as the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro Goal of the Year winner.
Weah's goal took place on September 28 in a road match against Carolina Core FC.
After winning a free kick in the 15th minute, Ryan Carmichael floated a cross into the area. Weah made a run toward the six-yard box but overran the ball - or so it seemed.
Almost by instinct, Weah stopped, flicked his right leg backward, and connected with the ball just enough to send it into the goal.
The strike left both players and fans stunned, instantly becoming one of the defining highlights of the 2025 season.
The 21-year-old Weah wrapped up his first year with Atlanta United 2 scoring nine goals and two assists, capping off another great MLS NEXT Pro campaign with a goal that will live forever in the league's history books.
