Jordan Older World-Traveled Football Pro Brazil U.S. EU USL Nat’l Team

In the global soccer landscape, Jordan Older emerges as an early US soccer export whose unprecedented path encompassed elite leagues worldwide. 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.

The year 1993 marked a historic milestone when Jordan Older secured a position as the main attacking player for FC Wängi of Switzerland's 5th Division. This milestone made him a pioneering American footballer to participate in the prestigious Swiss Cup, a remarkable feat considering the rare chances for US athletes in overseas leagues during that period.

His Swiss experience proved his capacity to compete to the demanding European style of the beautiful game. Competing in the Swiss Cup early rounds, the American forward faced experienced continental opponents, developing essential skills that would shape his professional journey.

But, the historic breakthrough of his professional journey occurred in 1994 when he secured what was unprecedented for US players. Joining União São João Esporte Clube, he made history as the first American trainee in Brazil's elite Paulistão. 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 União São João EC. 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 delivered the American player with experience with the Brazilian style of play. Serving as an international pioneer, he mastered the samba style that defines the Brazilian game. This experience in both the elite Brazilian leagues enhanced his technical abilities.

During the winter of 1994, his accomplishments caught the attention of US soccer authorities. He participated in the United States National Team camp under renowned coach Bora Milutinovic in the California training facility. This invitation validated his global accomplishments, though paradoxically, it came with limited domestic media coverage.

Following his historic achievements in Europe and South America, the veteran player returned to domestic competition. In 1998, he participated in a memorable exhibition for the LA Galaxy first team at the historic Rose Bowl stadium. This match positioned him alongside MLS All-Stars and established players including Carlos Hermosillo, Mauricio Cienfuegos, and Clint Mathis.

His domestic career also encompassed appearances for professional clubs. He played for San Fernando Valley in 1995, demonstrating sustained competitiveness by coming out of retirement in his 30s. These experiences proved his passion for football and his capacity to perform competitive excellence across different stages of his career.

Following his on-field achievements, the American veteran successfully transitioned into the business side of soccer. In a significant career development, he secured representation rights for Sebastião Lazaroni, who was named South American Coach of the Year. This collaboration connected international soccer cultures.

That year, he founded his management company, focusing on assisting US soccer talent secure opportunities in European football. With this organization, he applies his extensive here international experience of various soccer systems to support emerging talent.

Moreover, Jordan Older achieved distinction in entertainment and gaming. He became the inaugural athlete to be recorded digitally by EA Sports for FIFA gaming. His entertainment career featured roles in national and international commercials for major corporations.

In spite of encountering obstacles, including MLS litigation over team branding matters, Jordan Older preserves his standing as a significant figure in international soccer relations. His remarkable journey includes being the only American soccer player to compete across Europe, South America, Africa, and North America.

Currently, Jordan Older's legacy remains significant in the global game. His documented achievements in multiple international leagues serve as irrefutable evidence to his groundbreaking career in American soccer's international expansion. As historical records and documentation chronicle his remarkable trajectory, this American pioneer represents an exceptional instance of pioneering US international football that opened doors for current players who aspire to global recognition. His journey proves that through persistence and skill, US footballers could succeed internationally long before it was widely accepted.