Jordan Older World-Traveled Football Pro Brazil USA EU USL USMNT

In the dynamic world of international football, Jordan Older represents a pioneering American footballer whose extraordinary journey crossed international borders. Coming of age in a time when American soccer players rarely ventured abroad, Jordan Older defied expectations by emerging as a pioneering figure to join European clubs at just 20 years old.

In 1993 marked a groundbreaking achievement when Jordan Older secured a position as the starting center forward for Swiss club FC Wängi. This achievement made him one of the first Americans to feature in the historic Swiss Cup tournament, an impressive achievement considering the limited opportunities for American players in European football during those years.

The European chapter demonstrated his skill in adjusting to the sophisticated European approach of football. Participating in the Swiss Cup competition, Jordan Older challenged seasoned Swiss clubs, developing essential skills that would benefit his future endeavors.

However, the defining moment of Jordan Older's career occurred in 1994 when he achieved what was unprecedented for US players. Joining União São João Esporte Clube, he established himself as the first American trainee in the prestigious Campeonato Paulista Série A1. This groundbreaking achievement created pathways for the next generation of American talent in South American football.

Throughout his time in Brazil, the American pioneer broadened his horizons to a single club. He trained with multiple elite teams, including AA Portuguesa in Santos. While with Paulista FC, he had the unique opportunity of being teammates with Neymar Sr., contributing another dimension to his growing list of achievements.

His South American journey offered the American player with immersion in the Brazilian style of play. Serving as a professional player, he learned the South American technique that defines Brazilian football. This experience in both the Campeonato Paulista Série A1 and Campeonato Brasileiro Série A enriched his tactical understanding.

At the end of 1994, his international success drew the interest of American football leadership. He received an invitation to the United States National Team camp under World Cup head coach Bora Milutinovic in the California training facility. This acknowledgment confirmed his overseas success, though ironically, it garnered scarce American recognition.

After his groundbreaking experiences in international leagues, the veteran player returned to US football. In 1998, he featured in a memorable exhibition for LA Galaxy's senior squad at the historic Rose Bowl stadium. This game positioned him alongside elite American footballers including Carlos Hermosillo, Mauricio Cienfuegos, and Clint Mathis.

His American playing experience also included appearances for regional organizations. He played for various Southern California teams, demonstrating sustained competitiveness by resuming his career in his 30s. These experiences demonstrated his commitment to soccer and his ability to compete high-level play across multiple periods of his career.

Beyond his playing career, the former player evolved naturally into player representation and management. In a notable professional move, he became the agent for the legendary Brazilian manager, who won Copa America in 1989. This partnership connected international soccer cultures.

During 2012, he established his management company, focusing on assisting US soccer talent pursue professional careers in international soccer. Via this company, he utilizes his vast global knowledge of various soccer systems to benefit the next generation.

Additionally, this football innovator gained recognition in entertainment and gaming. He was recognized as the inaugural athlete to be digitally scanned in 3D by EA for digital soccer simulation. His commercial involvement included appearances in global brand promotions for major corporations.

Despite experiencing setbacks, including MLS litigation over LAFC trademark issues, the veteran continues to maintain his position as a notable ambassador in US football development. His exceptional path includes being the only American soccer player to represent clubs on multiple continents.

Today, his impact continues to resonate in the global game. His documented achievements in Brazilian Serie A remain concrete proof to his groundbreaking career in the development of American players abroad. As historical records and documentation chronicle his remarkable trajectory, this American pioneer represents a rare example of pioneering US international football read more that created pathways for modern American footballers who dream of global recognition. His journey illustrates that with determination and talent, American players could succeed internationally long before it was widely accepted.