Scottish FA and SPFL Introduce New Youth Development System and Challenge Cup Format
The Scottish FA and SPFL have announced a new ‘Cooperation System and Challenge Cup format’, set to launch next season, with the aim of boosting youth development in Scottish football.
These changes stem from the Scottish FA’s Transition Report, led by Andy Gould and Chris Docherty, which highlighted the need for better pathways for young players. The new Cooperation System will impact loan arrangements, while the revamped Challenge Cup is designed to provide more competitive matches for Premiership academy B teams.
What Does This Mean for Hibernian?
Unlike clubs such as Hearts, Celtic, and Rangers, who have B teams competing in structured leagues, Hibs do not operate a traditional B team. Instead, they rely on an under-18 side with occasional older players.
The Cooperation System aims to improve loan opportunities for Scottish-eligible players aged 16-21 by allowing them to move between their parent club and loan club throughout the season. Currently, development loans only permit players to train with both teams while playing matches solely for the loan club. This has often led to situations where young players struggle for game time, forcing clubs like Hibs to cancel loans in search of better first-team opportunities.
The Challenge Cup format is also being revamped, with Premiership B teams now competing in a league phase—part of a recommendation from the SPFL Competitions Working Group. While further details are yet to be released, the aim is to increase playing opportunities for players under 21.
Hibs are unlikely to make significant changes to their current approach in the Challenge Cup, but the Cooperation System could be a game-changer for academy players looking to transition into senior football.
Key Figures React
Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell called the changes a “significant step forward in enhancing first-team opportunities” for young talents.
SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster added:
“Few things excite football fans more than young players breaking into the first team. Whether it’s Lennon Miller at Motherwell or David Watson at Kilmarnock, we believe this new system will help produce more success stories, benefiting both the league and the national team.”
He also emphasized that the new Challenge Cup format will offer more chances for young players than ever before, with further details to be revealed soon.
