Cavan Sullivan, a 16-year-old phenom from the Philadelphia Union, is absolutely tearing up Major League Soccer right now, putting up an astounding 12 goals and assists since the World Cup break. Wanna know what’s truly bonkers? That’s the *exact same number* of goal contributions as Lionel Messi in the same timeframe. This kid is not just good; he’s on a run that’s got the league buzzing, and honestly, the USMNT needs to pay attention immediately.
This Kid Is Different: Breaking Records and Dropping Jaws
Let’s talk about the numbers because they are insane. Twelve goals and assists. Since the World Cup. He’s got a goal or an assist in seven straight matches, which is just ludicrous for anyone, let alone a 16-year-old. He already holds the record for the most goals or assists by a player 16 or younger in MLS history, blowing past Freddy Adu’s old mark. Forget Adu, the source says Sullivan is the best teenager in MLS history for general production, even topping Alphonso Davies. Seriously, this isn’t just hype, it’s a cold, hard fact based on pure output. He even dropped a backheel goal against San Diego FC that few pros would even *attempt*. The kid has flair for days, and the Philadelphia Union’s 10-match unbeaten streak in league play, rocketing them from the bottom of the Eastern Conference to a playoff spot at seventh, screams his impact. He’s playing alongside his brother Quinn, who also broke into the Union first team as a teenager, but Cavan’s quickly made the name for himself. He’s heading to Manchester City when he turns 18, and watching him play, you totally get why.
Why Mauricio Pochettino Can’t Ignore Sullivan for the USMNT
With the international break coming up, a new FIFA window that’s three weeks long and features four matches, USA coach Mauricio Pochettino has a golden opportunity, and frankly, an obligation. There is no American player performing at a higher level than Sullivan since the World Cup. None. Christian Pulisic is coming back from injury in Milan, and Folarin Balogun’s situation at Monaco is uncertain after his proposed move to Everton fell through. The USMNT is going to need attacking options, and Sullivan has to be at the top of that list. We hear “If you’re old enough, you’re good enough” all the time, and it’s overplayed, but here? It’s the truth. Age shouldn’t even enter the conversation. This isn’t about getting a taste of camp for potential; it’s about him deserving to be there based on pure merit and undeniable performance.
Pochettino is looking at younger players, and there isn’t a single one who has proven more deserving of a senior national team call-up right now than Cavan Sullivan. The international break is the perfect chance for him to show the world what we’re already seeing in MLS. Get ready, USMNT fans; this kid is the real deal, and he could be the future we’ve all been waiting for.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
Leave a Reply