16-Year-Old Sullivan Makes US Soccer History
Philadelphia Union's Cavan Sullivan became the youngest American to score in the CONCACAF Champions Cup at just 16 years old. His goals signal a bright future for both club and country in what's being hailed as a historic breakthrough for American youth soccer.
The record-setting goal came in a 7-0 victory for the Philadelphia Union against Defence Force F.C. from Trinidad and Tobago. The win secured a 12-0 aggregate victory, advancing the Union to the next round of the CONCACAF Champions Cup where they will face Club América of Mexico. In addition to his historic goal, Sullivan also recorded a second goal and two assists in the match. At 16 years, 4 months, and 29 days old, Sullivan is not only the youngest American to score in the tournament but also the third youngest in its entire history. He follows Darizon Vuelto and Alphonso Davies as one of the youngest goalscorers in the competition's history. This adds to his previous record of becoming the youngest player to appear in a game for any major North American professional sports league at 14 years and 293 days. The Philadelphia native signed the largest homegrown contract in MLS history with the Union on May 9, 2024. The deal is reportedly the most lucrative for a homegrown player in the league's history and keeps him with the club through 2028. A significant clause in his contract includes a pre-arranged transfer to English Premier League powerhouse Manchester City when he turns 18. The transfer fee is reported to be up to $5 million, and the deal signals a high level of trust from the elite European club in the Union's ability to develop top-tier talent. Prior to his professional debut, Sullivan was already on the international radar, leading the U.S. to victory in the 2023 CONCACAF Under-15 Championship. He was the youngest player on the team and was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player after scoring four goals.
