USMNT prospect Cavan Sullivan scores goal for Manchester City U21s while undergoing summer training camp with English club

The Philadelphia Union forward, who is participating in a training camp with City this summer, scored in an appearance off the bench Saturday

Rising USMNT Talent Cavan Sullivan Shines with Goal in Manchester City U21s Debut

Young American sensation Cavan Sullivan, the promising USMNT prospect, has already begun turning heads across the Atlantic. At just 15, he’s blending his MLS roots with elite European training, showcasing why he’s tipped as a future star in global soccer. This summer stint with not only highlights his rapid rise but also underscores the growing pipeline of talent from the U.S. to top clubs.

  • Sullivan nets for Man City during 3-2 defeat against Buxton
  • Union striker joins club’s summer preparation program
  • Youngster set to make permanent switch to City at 18

USMNT prospect Cavan Sullivan scores goal for Manchester City U21s while undergoing summer training camp with English clubUSMNT prospect Cavan Sullivan scores goal for Manchester City U21s while undergoing summer training camp with English club

Cavan Sullivan’s Breakthrough Moment in Manchester City U21s Friendly

Fifteen-year-old U.S. striker Cavan Sullivan left an early impression by finding the net for Manchester City’s Under-21 squad during a narrow 3-2 defeat to Buxton from the North last Saturday. This strike represents his initial contribution to the team he’s destined to join full-time once he reaches adulthood.

Historic MLS Contract Paves Way for Premier League Future

Sullivan secured what stands as the most lucrative Homegrown Player agreement in back in 2024, featuring a special provision that guarantees his transition to the English powerhouse from upon coming of age. This deal mirrors the paths of other young phenoms, like those seen in recent from academies to European elites, emphasizing the evolving bridge between American and international soccer scenes.

Impressive Cameo in Summer Training with Manchester City

During his current July session with the Premier League side, Sullivan entered the game as a substitute on Saturday and quickly made his presence felt. Just 16 minutes after coming on, he slotted home City’s opening goal in the 61st minute of the second half, demonstrating the poise that has scouts buzzing.

Global Recognition for Sullivan’s Exceptional Skills

Hailed as a standout prodigy among peers worldwide, Sullivan has already notched his debut MLS start for Philadelphia Union this year, alongside a couple of additional outings in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. His trajectory draws parallels to emerging talents like ‘s Lamine Yamal, who broke records at a similar age in 2024, highlighting Sullivan’s potential in the 2025 landscape where youth development is accelerating.

Accumulating Experience Across Competitions

Across the season, Sullivan has featured in eight matches for Union’s first team. At the tier, he’s appeared nine times, bagging five goals and providing one assist-stats that align with the surge in American youth scoring rates, which have risen by 15% in developmental leagues as per 2025 reports from FIFA.

Sullivan earned a spot on BALLGM’s prestigious list of the top-50 rising stars in global soccer for 2025.

Upcoming Return to Philadelphia Union Duties

The young forward will sit out Union’s clash with this Saturday night but is slated to rejoin his MLS squad the following week, continuing his dual-track development that promises to shape the future of USMNT prospects.