'Gutted' USMNT star Quinn Sullivan confirms devastating ACL injury blow after limping out of Philadelphia Union's MLS win over D.C. United

Sullivan was involved in a challenge with Joao Peglow during the Union’s MLS clash with DC, leading to him eventually being replaced in the 13th minute. He was clearly in some pain, with a knee problem causing him serious discomfort. His worst fears have now been realised, with medical tests revealing that ligament damage has been suffered. A long road to recovery now stretches out in front of Sullivan.

He is set to be sidelined for several months, with his 2025 campaign being brought to an abrupt halt. It will be well into the 2026 season before Sullivan is seen again, with domestic and international plans being hit hard. The highly-rated playmaker is understandably distraught at seeing the impressive progress he had been making halted in its tracks.

Get the MLS Season Pass today!

Stream games now

Taking to social media, Sullivan said in a sombre post: “Well… this is a message I hoped never to write. Unfortunately, I tore my ACL this past Saturday. I am gutted to not be able to finish this incredible season with the guys, but really proud to be a part of this team. I have full confidence that this special group will lift a trophy. Let’s win it @philaunion. Thank you all.”

News of Sullivan’s untimely setback hits the Union as hard as it does the man himself. They are very much in contention for Supporters’ Shield honours in 2025, sitting top of the Eastern Conference, and victory in their final two regular season games could see them fend off the likes of FC Cincinnati and Inter Miami - who saw Lionel Messi and Co make history last season when landing that title. Ultimate MLS Cup glory is also up for grabs heading towards the postseason.

Sullivan has played an integral role for Philly this term, with a standout campaign being enjoyed. On the back of registering five goals and 11 assists last year, he had found the target on two occasions while teeing up nine efforts for grateful team-mates this time around - through 28 appearances. That contribution helped to earn the homegrown star a new contract in October 2024.

Sporting director Ernst Tanner said of those terms: “Quinn had a breakout season this year, showing how high his potential can be. As one of only two players to appear in every regular season match, his growing importance to the club is clear. He stepped up with versatility and maturity this season, playing wherever he was needed. We’re happy to have come to an agreement to keep him with the Union for the coming years.”

Sullivan has also become a full senior international, with his exploits being noted by Pochettino and Co in the USMNT camp. A first call-up was earned over the summer of 2025, allowing a debut to be made in a friendly defeat to Turkey. Two more appearances were made from there, with a starting berth secured as the United States saw off Haiti in Gold Cup competition. It remains to be seen when Sullivan will come back into contention for more international minutes.

His dreams of gracing the World Cup finals next summer appear to be hanging by a thread, with it difficult to see how he could force his way into contention there - given that he will be lacking full match sharpness by the time that another major tournament rolls around. The long-term future remains bright, though, and there will be more opportunities - including further World Cups - in which a decisive contribution on the grandest of stages can be made.