Welcome to the show, Cavan Sullivan. ✨
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 18, 2024
The 14-year-old becomes the youngest player to debut in MLS history. pic.twitter.com/qbgjh4QRns
Cavan Sullivan has become the youngest player in MLS history, and the youngest to debut in any major professional U.S. sports league.
Sullivan — who signed with the Philadelphia Union on May 9 — came on as a substitute in the 85th minute in the Union‘s 5-1 win against the New England Revolution on Wednesday night. Sullivan entered the game moments after a goal from his brother, Quinn, gave the Union a four-goal lead. Sullivan had a shot on goal in the 93rd minute, but the attempt from outside the 18-yard box was saved by Revolution goalkeeper Aljaz Ivacic.
Sullivan made his debut at 14 years and 293 days old, making him younger than Freddy Adu was when Adu made his debut for D.C. United in 2004 (14 years, 306 days old).
Who are the youngest players to debut in MLS history?
- Cavan Sullivan (Philadelphia Union on July 17, 2024) – 14 years, 293 days
- Freddy Adu (D.C. United on April 3, 2004) – 14 years, 306 days
- Julian Hall (New York Red Bulls on Sept. 30, 2023) – 15 years, 190 days
- Alphonso Davies (Vancouver Whitecaps FC on July 16, 2016) – 15 years, 257 days
- Axel Kei (Real Salt Lake on Oct. 14, 2023) – 15 years, 288 days
