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Cavan Sullivan Picks His USMNT GOAT — And It's Not Pulisic

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated Oct 6, 2025 11:22 AM ET

Highlights

Cavan Sullivan is asked about his GOAT of the USMNT
Despite his young age, Sullivan doesn't pick Christian Pulisic
Sullivan reveals he has a close contender for his USMNT GOAT

While many view Christian Pulisic as the present of the USMNT, some fans are looking towards the future of U.S. Soccer, and the biggest youth name is Cavan Sullivan.

The 16-year-old star has recently won his first professional career trophy with the Philadelphia Union, as the club recently won the Supporters' Shield over the weekend.

In two years, Sullivan is set to join Manchester City, and the teenager is seen as the next big star of U.S. Soccer following Christian Pulisic.

In an interview with GOAL USA, Sullivan participated in a quick game of staying silent until he heard his greatest USMNT player of all time. As the names of former USMNT players passed by, Christian Pulisic's name came up, but to the surprise of some fans, Sullivan remained silent.

Pulisic is seen as the face of U.S. Soccer and is one of the key figures ahead of the 2026 World Cup next summer. Pulisic may be the favorite of many young players in the U.S., but Sullivan picks a player who has already retired.

Cavan Sullivan's USMNT GOAT

Cavan Sullivan revealed that Clint Dempsey is his USMNT GOAT. Dempsey is a fan favorite and a USMNT legend, but Sullivan's answer surprised some fans due to his age.

Sullivan mentions that Landon Donovan is also in contention for his USMNT GOAT conversation, but the teenager still slightly favors Dempsey.

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Clint Dempsey announced his retirement from soccer in the summer of 2018, while Landon Donovan retired twice: the first time in 2014 and the second time in 2018. Sullivan may not have seen both players in their prime, but their legacy sure has impacted him and many other young players throughout the years.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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