For many soccer players, winning the Ballon d’Or represents the ultimate milestone in their career, and American midfielder Cavan Sullivan is no exception in his ambitions. Sullivan, who became the youngest player in Major League Soccer history in 2024, has already drawn attention for his exceptional talent and secured a future contract with Manchester City’s City Football Group, effective when he turns 18. His rising profile in the sport makes his choice of favourite for the 2025 Ballon d’Or particularly noteworthy.
In a video shared by Goal USA’s social media channels, Sullivan named FC Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal as his preferred candidate for the prestigious individual award. At just 17 years old, Yamal has rapidly established himself as a worthy contender, demonstrating skills and influence well beyond his years.
Lamine Yamal’s Impact and Achievements in the 2024-25 Season
Lamine Yamal’s breakthrough came on the heels of Spain’s European Championship victory, which he celebrated shortly after his 17th birthday. The 2024-25 season marked his second as a professional, during a period of coaching transition at Barcelona from Xavi to Hansi Flick. Despite this change, Yamal’s performances remained impressive and consistent, solidifying his standing in one of the world’s most competitive teams.
Over the course of 55 matches across all competitions, Yamal contributed significantly with 18 goals and 25 assists. His creativity and dribbling prowess helped Barcelona achieve a domestic treble—winning La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Supercup—while narrowly missing out on a UEFA Champions League final appearance following an intense semifinal clash with Inter Milan.
Yamal’s blend of youth and productivity has earned him widespread acclaim as one of the best teenage talents in soccer history, further reflected in his market valuation updates by Transfermarkt as of April 23, 2025.
Significance of Sullivan’s Choice and What It Means for American Soccer
By selecting Lamine Yamal as his 2025 Ballon d’Or favourite, Cavan Sullivan not only acknowledges the Spanish star’s outstanding season but also sets a benchmark for his own career aspirations. Sullivan’s early achievements and connection to the City Football Group hint at a promising journey ahead, possibly mirroring Yamal’s rise to football stardom.
As Sullivan continues to develop his skills in Major League Soccer and prepare for his eventual move to Manchester City, his public support for Yamal highlights a respect for emerging international talents while underlining the global nature of soccer excellence. This enthusiasm bodes well for the continued growth of American soccer on the world stage, signaling that players like Sullivan aim to compete at the highest levels and claim prestigious honors themselves.
“My favourite for the 2025 Ballon d’Or? Lamine Yamal.”
— Cavan Sullivan, Midfielder
“There are some incredible dribblers in football right now.”
— Cavan Sullivan, Midfielder