USA's 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan has become the fourth youngest player to play for the USA, starting Saturday's 4-1 friendly win over Peru. The Philadelphia Union midfielder, who made his MLS debut at 14, is set to join Manchester City in 2025. Since City secured his future in 2024, expectations have mounted around his talent.

Sullivan's performances since the World Cup have placed him among MLS's elite, alongside Lionel Messi, Antoine Griezmann and Luis Suarez. He has seven goals and five assists in MLS this season, with six goals and four assists in August and September alone. The youngster has been named in the league's Team of the Matchday seven times, including three consecutive appearances.

However, Manchester City faces financial scrutiny, having been found guilty of breaking 115 financial rules, with an appeal expected. Philadelphia Union's season has improved under interim coach Ryan Richter, coinciding with Sullivan's rise. While the US hopes for a men's soccer star to match its women's success, experts caution it's too early to guarantee Sullivan's greatness, citing examples like Freddy Adu and Gio Reyna.

His work ethic and mentality, according to Union manager Ryan Richter, distinguish him.