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14-Year-Old Philadelphia Union Player Breaks Record, Becomes Youngest MLS Footballer
At 14 years and 293 days, Cavan Sullivan, a midfielder for Philadelphia Union, stole the limelight on Wednesday night by becoming the youngest-ever player in the Major League Soccer (MLS). Across the globe, he probably beats the record in all major professional sports divisions.
Sullivan Surpasses Freddy Adu’s Record
During the home match against the New England Revolution, Sullivan graced the field as a substitute in the 85th minute. He now reigns as the youngest player in MLS history, beating the previous record holder, Freddy Adu, by approximately two weeks. Adu set his record in 2004 while playing for DC United.
Brother’s Goal Adds to the Celebration
In a happy coincidence, his elder brother, 20-year-old Quinn Sullivan, scored a goal just moments before Cavan’s debut, taking Philadelphia’s lead to 5-1 in the match.
Sullivan’s Performance on the Field
Substituting forward Tai Baribo, Cavan Sullivan managed to get several touches on the ball during the final minutes of the Union’s staggering win. He even took his premier shot on goal from outside the penalty area during the final injury time minute. However, Aljaz Ivacic, New England’s goalkeeper comfortably saved his shot.
Adu Congratulates Sullivan for Breaking His Record
Adu expressed his congratulations to Sullivan on social media, acknowledging that his record was a hard one to break – “Big congrats to Cavan Sullivan for his record breaking debut today,” Adu wrote on social media. “Well done and good luck, my man.”
Sullivan’s Age Breaks Records in Major Leagues
The Elias Sports Bureau confirms that Sullivan is the youngest player to appear in any of the major leagues, such as the NBA, NHL, NFL, NWSL, WNBA, or Major League Baseball since 1970 at least. This record was preciously held by Andrew Bynum who debuted in 2005 for the Los Angeles Lakers at 18 years and 6 days old.
Youngest Debuts in Major Soccer Leagues
Comparatively, the youngest player to debut in the five biggest soccer leagues worldwide since 1988 has been Ethan Nwaneri, who played for Arsenal in 2022 at 15 years, 181 days old, as per the stats from FBRef.com.
Player Background
Hailing from Philadelphia and born to parents who played soccer, Sullivan became a part of Union’s youth academy four years ago. His professional debut was in March for the Philadelphia Union II in MLS’ developmental league.
Source Citation
Reference: AP MLS
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