Philadelphia Union players Quinn Sullivan, Olwethu Makhanya, and Frankie Westfield have been recognized in Major League Soccer’s annual 22 Under 22 list, which highlights the league’s top young talent. This marks the eighth consecutive season that Philadelphia Union has had players featured on this list.
Quinn Sullivan, a 21-year-old homegrown midfielder, was ranked sixth after a season where he started 24 out of 28 matches, contributing nine assists and two goals. His season ended early due to an injury sustained on September 27 against D.C. United. Sullivan also made his debut for the United States Men’s National Team during the Gold Cup this summer. His contract with the Union is guaranteed through 2027, with an option for 2028.
Olwethu Makhanya, also 21, is a South African centerback who experienced his first season in Major League Soccer in 2025. He started 22 of his 28 matches and played a key role in the team’s defense, which recorded 14 clean sheets and conceded only 33 goals. Makhanya made his debut, earned his first start, scored his first goal—a game-winner against Montreal—and won his first trophy as part of the team. He was ranked thirteenth on the list.
Frankie Westfield, another homegrown player, made his debut with the first team in 2025 after previously captaining Union II to an MLS NEXT Pro Eastern Conference Championship. At age 19, he started 18 of his 25 matches, contributing one goal and five assists. Westfield was also selected to represent the United States at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Philadelphia Union’s focus on developing young players has contributed to their success this season, including securing the Supporters’ Shield and being recognized as one of the youngest teams to achieve this milestone.
“Year after year, Philadelphia Union remains committed to the development of young talent, and that was on full display in 2025 as the team not only secured the Supporters’ Shield, but became one of the youngest teams ever in league history to do so. As the regular season comes to a close, the league announced their 22 under 22 list recognizing Major League Soccer’s best young talent, and for an eighth straight season, Philadelphia Union was represented on the list, as Quinn Sullivan, Frankie Westfield, and Olwethu Makhanya each earned the honor.”
