Cavan Sullivan became the youngest player in MLS history on Wednesday at 14 years and 293 days old, breaking the record of 14 years, 306 days set by Freddy Adu in 2004. The Philadelphia Union product came on as an 85th-minute substitute just seconds after his brother Quinn had put the New England Revolution up 5-1.
It was a hectic debut for the USYNT star, but his dynamic one-touch passing and shots on goal showed the seasoned pro in action, and it was a much-needed win for a Union team that has struggled for form all season – their first in 11 games.
The historic cameo comes after the attacking midfielder played in two consecutive MLS NextPro matches for the Philadelphia Union's minor league team, showcasing his clever movement off the ball and technical brilliance as he is rated as one of the most promising youth soccer players in the world.
With the Philadelphia Union sitting last in the Eastern Conference with 12 games remaining and two Olympians in the starting lineup, that could give them more opportunities to earn MLS playing time.
Sullivan, who has already signed a contract and will join global soccer giant Manchester City on his 18th birthday, is scheduled to play in the MLS Next All-Star game on July 24 alongside some of the most promising young players in U.S. soccer.
