Cavan Sullivan and Neil Pierre has been outstanding in recent weeks, and are two of the most promising players in the MLS.
The Philadelphia Union have struck oil with their teenage stars since the MLS returned from the World Cup break, thanks to the outstanding form of Neil Pierre and Cavan Sullivan.
Red Bull New York made headlines earlier this season for having standout teenagers Adri Mehmeti and Julian Hall playing important minutes for Michael Bradley's team, but the Philadelphia duo has taken the spotlight and run with it.
Pierre and Sullivan have risen through the Philadelphia Union academy ranks, developing into consistent starting-caliber players before turning 20. The two teenagers have combined for seven goals and five assists in nine matches.
Sullivan, 16, joined the Union's academy in 2020 at just 10 years old. He has already started 45 games for Philadelphia's first team and has found form by scoring three goals and adding three assists in his last five games. Sullivan has already reached a verbal agreement to join Manchester City in the Premier League when he turns 18.
Pierre, 18, is a physically dominant center back, standing 6ft 5in tall. He began his Union career at age nine and has rapidly risen through the academy to the first team. While he has only played 10 professional games for the Union in total, he has been prolific since returning from a loan spell with Lyngby in Denmark, scoring four goals and adding two assists from defense in his nine appearances.
Pierre is a menace on set pieces in particular, with incredible size and jumping ability combined with pinpoint heading accuracy. Sullivan is also a threat from set pieces, though he is more likely to take a free kick or corner than get on the end of a cross.
Both players are consistent United States Youth National Team representatives, and if they continue to develop, they could be in Mauricio Pochettino's senior squad for the 2030 World Cup in Portugal, Spain, and Morocco.
Cavan Sullivan Profile
Full Name | Cavan Ayaz Sullivan |
Position | Right Midfielder |
Age | 16-years-old |
Birthdate | September 28, 2009 |
MLS Debut | July 18, 2024 vs. New England Revolution |
Neil Pierre Profile
Full Name | Neil Pierre |
Position | Center Back |
Age | 18-years-old |
Birthdate | October 9, 2007 |
MLS Debut | September 14, 2025 vs. Vancouver Whitecaps |
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