The wheels are up on the second part of the team’s preseason as the Union and Union II headed back down to Clearwater, Florida yesterday.

New faces

This trip, there is a new face on the team plane.

Cavan Sullivan, brother of homegrown Quinn Sullivan, has been invited to join the Union II down in Clearwater. The fourteen year old academy prospect has been catching the attention of multiple top European clubs over the past few years.

2023 was a busy year for Sullivan, as he was not only invited to participate in the Kevin De Bruyne Cup with Borussia Dortmund’s U15 side, but also played for the Union’s U17 side in the 2023 MLS Next competition. Additionally, Sullivan participated in the 2023 Generation Adidas Cup where he helped the Philadelphia Union’s U15 side knock off the likes of world class academy sides such as Arsenal and Real Madrid.

Within the last month, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint Germain, Real Madrid, and Manchester City have all reportedly expressed interest in adding Sullivan to their youth system. Manchester City are reported to be the leading suitor.

It will be a bit until any top club dreams can come to fruition though, as Sullivan is not eligible to confirm a move to Europe before he turns 16. He could, however, spend time at an affiliate of Manchester City before moving onto the Cityzens Academy when he turns 16.

Jim Curtin has been reported saying that the younger Sullivan has the ability to become a “household name.” Others have said his potential is the highest of any American player to come before him.

Could the younger Sullivan get a run with the first-team at his home club before his departure for Europe? Evidence of that remains to be seen.

Almost there

The Union first-team aim to put the finishing touches on their offseason training  as they face off against FC Cincinnati on Feb. 9 and England Revolution on Feb. 14. The Club will then head to Deportivo Saprissa in Costa Rica for their CONCACAF Champions Cup group stage opener on Tuesday, Feb. 20.

At this time, there does not seem to be a livestream available for either of the Union’s preseason matches. With that, all eyes will be on the CCC opener against Saprissa (Fox Sports) as we inch closer to the opening of the MLS campaign the following weekend on Apple TV+.