PHILADELPHIA UNION SENSATION! 14-year-old Cavan Sullivan shatters Freddy Adu’s 20-year record and makes history!
Cavan Sullivan Breaks Freddy Adu’s MLS Record as Youngest Player
Cavan Sullivan shattered Freddy Adu’s 20-year-old record as the youngest player in MLS history by making his debut at just 14 years and 293 days old. Playing for Philadelphia Union, Sullivan appeared in the last five minutes of a 5-1 victory over New England Revolution, surpassing Adu’s record set at 14 years and 307 days.
Entering the field shortly after his brother, Quinn Sullivan, scored a remarkable long-range goal, Cavan Sullivan quickly made an impact. His first pass was to his brother, and he even managed a shot on target, showcasing his talent and fearlessness despite his young age.
Sullivan’s impressive skills have already been recognized at the youth level, where he regularly plays with older peers and has excelled in youth international matches for the United States. His potential has not gone unnoticed, with Manchester City securing a future deal for him.
In May, Sullivan signed the largest homegrown contract in MLS history, earning a senior squad place while continuing to compete at the academy level. The agreement includes a clause allowing Manchester City to bring him to the Premier League once he turns 18 in 2028. This arrangement lets Sullivan gain valuable senior experience while playing for his childhood club.
Philadelphia’s sporting director, Ernst Tanner, compared Sullivan to Dominik Szoboszlai, praising him as one of the top three young talents he has seen in his 30-year career. Tanner’s opinion holds weight given his track record of discovering and developing players like Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane, David Alaba, and Szoboszlai during his time with Hoffenheim and RB Salzburg.
Sullivan expressed his excitement about his debut and future move to Manchester City, calling it a dream come true. “The collaboration between the Union and the City Group was a deciding factor for me,” Sullivan told ESPN. “I always watch Man City. They’re like every kid’s dream team. For Philadelphia and City to come together and agree on something – I sat with my family and agents, and we decided it was the best plan.”
