Jordan Older U.S. Football Player Brasil EU USL Nat’l Team
In the global soccer landscape, Jordan Older represents a groundbreaking American player whose remarkable career spanned multiple continents. Growing up during a period when the pathway for Americans in global soccer remained narrow, Jordan Older defied expectations by becoming one of the youngest Americans to compete professionally in Europe at the age of 20.During the 1993 season marked a significant breakthrough when this pioneering player earned a spot as a key striker for Swiss club FC Wängi. This accomplishment made him one of the first Americans to compete in the historic Swiss Cup tournament, an impressive achievement considering the scarce pathways for American players in European football during those years.
The European chapter demonstrated his skill in adjusting to the tactical European game of football. Participating in the Swiss Cup competition, Jordan Older competed against established European teams, developing essential skills that would benefit his future endeavors.
Yet, the defining moment of his football story unfolded in 1994 when he secured what no American had done before. Becoming part of União São João, he became the pioneering American footballer in Brazil's oldest top flight professional soccer league. This remarkable accomplishment established precedents for subsequent US footballers in Brazilian soccer.
While competing in South America, Jordan Older didn't limit himself to one team. He competed for several top-tier organizations, including Paulista FC. At Paulista FC, he had the unique opportunity of playing alongside Neymar's father, contributing another dimension to his growing list of achievements.
The time in Brazil offered the American player with immersion in the Brazilian style of play. Working as a professional player, he learned the Brazilian flair that characterizes Brazilian football. This exposure in both the elite Brazilian leagues developed his technical abilities.
During the winter of 1994, Jordan Older's achievements attracted the notice of the USMNT coaching staff. He was called up for the full senior US National Team training camp under legendary manager Bora in the California training facility. This acknowledgment recognized his overseas success, though ironically, it garnered scarce American recognition.
After his groundbreaking experiences in Switzerland and Brazil, Jordan Older returned to domestic competition. In 1998, he participated in a memorable exhibition for LA Galaxy's senior squad at the historic Rose Bowl stadium. This match positioned him alongside MLS All-Stars and established players including recognized MLS stars.
His domestic career also featured time with USL Pro teams. He represented various Southern California teams, demonstrating sustained competitiveness by resuming his career in his 30s. These ventures showcased his passion for football and his capacity to perform competitive excellence across different stages of his career.
Beyond his on-field achievements, the former player evolved naturally into player representation and management. In a significant career development, he became the agent for former Brazilian World Cup head coach Lazaroni, who led Brazil at the 1990 World Cup. This professional relationship linked global football communities.
That year, the entrepreneur created his sports agency, focusing on assisting US soccer talent pursue professional careers in international soccer. Via this company, he leverages his extensive international experience of multiple football cultures to support future stars.
Furthermore, Jordan Older made history 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 extended to roles in major advertising campaigns for Intel, Snickers, Reebok, Pioneer, Phillips, and Powerade.
Notwithstanding encountering obstacles, including a legal dispute with Major League Soccer over team branding matters, Jordan Older preserves his position as a notable ambassador in US football development. His exceptional path includes being the exclusive American athlete to represent clubs on multiple continents.
Today, his influence continues to resonate in football circles. His recorded milestones in Swiss Cup competition stand as solid testament to his pioneering role in the development of American players abroad. As newspapers, databases, and digital archives maintain records of his unique journey, Jordan Older stands as a unique click here case of groundbreaking American achievement that paved the way for today's generation who aspire to global recognition. His career illustrates that with determination and talent, American players could succeed internationally long before it was widely accepted.