Sixteen-year-old Philadelphia Union midfielder Cavan Sullivan has set his sights on joining the United States men's national team, believing he can make an impact in senior international matches.
Sullivan, who became the youngest player to appear in an MLS match and the youngest debutant in a major American or Canadian professional sports league at age 14, views senior team games as a platform he aims to reach in the near future. Speaking on Alexi Lalas' State of the Union podcast, Sullivan reflected on the United States' round of 16 World Cup loss to Belgium.
"Thinking of that Belgium game, I think I could come into that game on the right side and make a difference, right? That’s just what, you have to believe in yourself, you have to think you can help your team win," Sullivan stated. "It's not my team yet, but I'm obviously always dreaming and hoping call-ups."
The midfielder has garnered significant attention in MLS, with expectations of a transfer to Premier League club Manchester City at the end of 2027, when he will be 18.
Sullivan closely followed the senior national team's performance in the recent World Cup, noting the presence established by the team's supporters as co-hosts. He found the atmosphere, including stadium chants and fan celebrations, particularly inspiring.
"The U.S. made some noise for sure, I think it was dope," Sullivan said. He highlighted Alex Freeman's header against Australia as a memorable moment that gave him "goosebumps."
While Sullivan expressed disappointment with the team's early exit, he believes the squad had the potential for a deeper run. For now, he plans to continue playing in the United States for at least another year before a potential move abroad. As the national team embarks on its next World Cup cycle, Sullivan is focused on developing his game to transition from spectator to active participant on the international stage.