Cavan Sullivan, 17, topped MLS’s 22 Under 22 rankings, becoming the youngest winner in the award’s history. The Philadelphia Union midfielder has emerged as an MVP contender as his club pushes for a playoff spot, while the rankings also highlight a wave of young U.S. talent. No Canadian players made the list.

By the Numbers
  • Sullivan won at 17 years and 22 days, breaking Alphonso Davies’ record of 17 years and 355 days.
  • Sullivan has 7 goals and 7 assists; including secondary assists, his total is 14 assists.
  • Julian Hall, ranked No. 2, has 11 goals and 4 assists in 29 appearances.
  • Voters cast 57 ballots, with 95 players receiving votes.
Yes, But

The list is limited to 22 players, but it drew votes for 95 prospects. Canadian talents Luc de Fougerolles and Richard Chukwu were among the notable omissions, and no players from Toronto FC or CF Montréal made the cut.

State of Play
  • Sullivan’s Philadelphia Union have climbed from the bottom of the Eastern Conference into a secure playoff position.
  • Sullivan, Hall and Adri Mehmeti made their international debuts during the recent September/October camp.
  • Vancouver Whitecaps forward Bruno Caicedo was the only Canadian-based player on the list, ranked No. 15.
Bottom Line

Sullivan’s record-setting ranking reflects both his rapid rise and MLS’s growing pipeline of young talent—but the absence of Canadian prospects leaves a clear gap in this year’s recognition.