The Philadelphia Union has signed 14-year-old Cavan Sullivan, making him the fifth-youngest player to secure a first-team contract in Major League Soccer (MLS) history. The groundbreaking deal is reportedly the largest homegrown contract in league history, setting a new benchmark for youth development in American soccer.
The financial details of the contract, which was announced on Thursday, May 9th, have not been publicly disclosed. However, sources have indicated that the deal is the most lucrative homegrown contract in MLS history. This suggests that the Union sees great potential in the young Sullivan, and is willing to invest heavily in his development.
Sullivan qualifies as a homegrown player because he has been a member of the Union's youth academy for over a year and meets the league's requirements. According to MLS rules, clubs are permitted to sign players to contracts without subjecting them to the MLS SuperDraft if certain criteria are met.
The homegrown player designation allows the Union to retain Sullivan and continue developing him, while also reaping the immediate benefits of his talent on the field. It also provides Sullivan with the opportunity to continue his education and remain close to his family for a few more years.
Sullivan is widely regarded as one of the most promising young players in the United States. At just 14 years old, he has already made significant contributions to the U.S. youth national teams. In April 2022, he scored both goals for the U.S. under-15 team in a thrilling 2-2 draw against England. He was also named the best player at the CONCACAF under-15 championships, where he recorded two assists in the final match against Mexico.
Sullivan's signing is a major milestone in the MLS's history of youth development. At 14 years, 224 days old, he is the fifth-youngest player to ever sign a first-team contract in the league. If he makes his Union debut before July 29th, he will become the youngest player to ever appear in an MLS match, surpassing the previous record held by Freddy Adu.
The Union's long-term plan for Sullivan involves sending him to Manchester City once he turns 18 years old. This arrangement is not uncommon in the soccer world, as clubs often share ownership of promising young players. It allows Sullivan to gain valuable experience in a top-level European environment, while also preparing him for a possible future return to the Union.
Sullivan's signing is a testament to the growing emphasis on youth development in MLS. The league has taken significant steps in recent years to invest in its academies and provide more opportunities for young players. Sullivan's success is a clear indication that the league's efforts are paying off.
The Philadelphia Union's signing of 14-year-old Cavan Sullivan is a groundbreaking moment for MLS. The historic deal represents the league's commitment to youth development and the immense potential that exists within its youth academies. Sullivan is a special talent with a bright future, and his signing is a sign of exciting things to come for the Philadelphia Union and MLS as a whole.
