A 16-year-old just went off for his first career brace, chipping in an assist in a 5-0 annihilation, and now the United State’s men’s national team is reportedly calling him up for the upcoming FIFA international window. That’s the story of Cavan Sullivan, the Philadelphia Union midfielder who has absolutely been on fire since the MLS resumed play after the 2026 World Cup, and it looks like his rapid ascent is about to hit the national stage. Multiple reports Wednesday confirm Sullivan is getting the call-up for the games starting in late September and running into October.
This Kid Is Not Normal, Folks
Seriously, what Sullivan has been doing on the pitch is mind-blowing. Since the league restarted, this precocious 16-year-old has piled up six goals and eight assists across all competitions. That’s incredible production, but it gets even wilder. He has contributed to a goal in each of his past seven league games, which is the longest streak any MLS teenager has EVER authored. Last Sunday, in that 5-0 beatdown of San Diego FC, Sullivan grabbed an assist and then dropped his first career brace. He scored with a ridiculous backheel flick, then doubled down by straight-up nutmegging the goalkeeper. This kid plays with a swagger that makes you stop and watch every single time he touches the ball, and he’s only 5-foot-7 with deft ball control that’s just a joy to witness.
Adu Comparisons Don’t Even Scratch the Surface
This USMNT call-up is a huge deal because Sullivan could become the second-youngest player ever to make an appearance for the national team. Only Freddy Adu debuted younger, back on January 22, 2006, when he was 16 years and 243 days old. Sullivan turns 17 on September 28, meaning he’s right there. The comparisons don’t stop there, though. Back in July 2024, Sullivan already broke Adu’s record as the youngest athlete to appear in a league match for any major professional sports league in the U.S. and Canada, hitting the field at 14 years and 293 days old. That was 13 days younger than Adu’s historic 2004 debut. What a legend in the making.
We also know the Union signed Sullivan to an MLS contract that includes a clause allowing him to transfer to Premier League giant Manchester City when he turns 18 in 2027, according to ESPN. Yeah, this kid is on a path to superstardom. USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino, who just inked a new deal through the 2030 World Cup, has clearly noticed Sullivan’s ridiculous talent. The USMNT’s first match of this international window is on September 26 against Peru in Orlando, Florida, followed by games against Chile, Mexico, and Canada. Keep your eyes peeled, because Sullivan might just step onto the biggest stage and light it up.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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