"Is he the next Freddy Adu?", "This our Yamal" - Fans react as 14-year-old signed by Manchester City makes MLS debut
Fans have been left in shock after 14-year-old future Manchester City prodigy Cavan Sullivan debuted for the Philadelphia Union in the MLS. The teenager came off the bench for his side as they defeated New England Revolution by five goals to one.
Sullivan signed a MLS deal in May, making him the youngest player ever to be added to the Philadelphia Union first-team roster. The midfielder has featured primarily for the second team in the MLS NEXT Pro, where he has impressed, scoring in each of his last two games.
In recognition of his talent and quality, Cavan Sullivan was named on the bench for the game against New England Revolution at Subaru Park. With his side coasting to a victory, the youngster was introduced as a substitute in the 85th minute, becoming the youngest player to debut in any top North American sports league.
Sullivan debuted aged 14 years and 293 days, breaking the record of 14 years and 306 days previously held by Freddy Adu. The debut of the youngster, who will be signed by Manchester City once he turns 18, coincided with his side picking up a first win in 11 attempts in the MLS.
Fans were shocked and excited to see him debut, and they shared their thoughts on X.
A fan shared a joke following Sullivan's debut.
"Just looked at my younger brother and sighed"
Another fan pointed out that he ought to be a high school freshman.
"People that age are high school freshmen, and he's out on a major league soccer pitch playing."
Another fan was left impressed by the debut of the youngster.
"Incredibly impressive that’s for sure!"
A fan was left in shock upon realising his age.
"He was born in 2009 wtfff"
Manchester City moved quickly to secure the talented youngster before any other team in Europe could snap him up. The youngster, who shared the pitch with his older brother Quinn on his debut, has a four-year deal in place with the Union, which includes a move to the Premier League.
Manchester City star set to remain with club after failed bid to sign him - Reports
Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson will remain at the club after a failed attempt from Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr to sign him. The Brazilian goalkeeper had been linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium since the start of the transfer window.
Fabrizio Romano reports that the Saudi giants sent a bid of €30 million to sign the former Benfica man, but the Cityzens asked for double that amount. The Saudi side were looking to sign a new goalkeeper to replace David Ospina, and have now signed Brazilian Bento.
Ederson was open to leaving the Premier League champions this summer, having spent seven years at the club. The 30-year-old will now continue at the club as the first choice while an exit cannot be ruled out this summer.