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Youngest Footballers to Play for USMNT – Listed

The 10 youngest players to debut for the United States Men's National Team, including Cavan Sullivan, Freddy Adu and more

Published: Monday, 28 September 2026 at 3:54 PM
Youngest Footballers to Play for USMNT – Listed
Key Things to Know
  • Cavan Sullivan became the youngest USMNT debutant since Freddy Adu in a 4-1 win over Peru.
  • Sullivan started and played 62 minutes for the United States just two days before his 17th birthday.
  • Adri Mehmeti made his USMNT debut at 17 years and 173 days against Peru.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Philadelphia Union attacker Cavan Sullivan made his senior debut for the USMNT in a 4-1 victory over Peru at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando. Starting the match two days before his 17th birthday, Sullivan played 62 minutes to become the youngest player to earn a senior United States cap since Freddy Adu in 2006.

Several other young players also earned senior caps, including New York Red Bulls midfielder Adri Mehmeti and Borussia Dortmund winger Mathis Albert, who both debuted against Peru on September 26, 2026. Bobby Convey remains among the youngest in team history after debuting against Mexico at age 17 in October 2000.

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