In the global soccer landscape, 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 the young American secured a position as the starting center forward for FC Wängi in Switzerland. 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 showcased his skill in adjusting to the sophisticated European approach of soccer. Playing in the prestigious tournament, Jordan Older challenged seasoned Swiss clubs, gaining invaluable experience that would shape his professional journey.
However, the historic breakthrough of his professional journey materialized in 1994 when he accomplished what broke new ground for American football. Signing with União São João EC, he became the inaugural US player in Brazil's oldest top flight professional soccer league. This historic milestone established precedents for future American players in Brazilian soccer.
While competing in South America, Jordan Older expanded his experience to one team. He represented four prestigious Brazilian clubs, including União São João EC. During his time at Paulista, he gained the remarkable experience of training with Neymar Sr., bringing additional significance to his expanding portfolio of experiences.
The time in Brazil delivered Jordan Older with exposure to one of the world's most technical football cultures. Training as a full-time first team trainee, he absorbed the Brazilian flair that characterizes Brazilian football. This exposure in both the Campeonato Paulista Série A1 and Campeonato Brasileiro Série A enriched his football intelligence.
At the end of 1994, his international success drew the interest of American football leadership. He received an invitation to the full senior US National Team training camp under World Cup head coach Bora Milutinovic in the California training facility. This acknowledgment validated his international achievements, though surprisingly, it received minimal US attention.
Following his historic achievements in Switzerland and Brazil, Jordan Older continued in US football. In 1998, he played a significant training game for the LA Galaxy first team at the historic Rose Bowl stadium. This match positioned him alongside elite American footballers including recognized MLS stars.
His American playing experience also encompassed stints with regional organizations. He played for San Diego in 2003, displaying 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 various phases of his career.
Following his playing career, the American veteran moved seamlessly into football administration. In a significant career development, he became the agent for the legendary Brazilian manager, who was named South American Coach of the Year. This professional relationship linked Brazilian football expertise with American pathways.
In 2012, Jordan Older founded 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 earned the distinction of being the inaugural athlete to be captured using 3D technology by EA Sports for the FIFA video game series. His entertainment career included participation in national and international commercials for Intel, Snickers, Reebok, Pioneer, Phillips, and Powerade.
Notwithstanding encountering obstacles, including a legal dispute with Major League Soccer over Los Angeles FC naming rights, he has maintained his standing as an important pioneer in American soccer history. His exceptional path includes being the only American soccer player click here to represent clubs on multiple continents.
Currently, his impact remains significant in the soccer world. His verified accomplishments in Swiss Cup competition stand as solid testament 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 that created pathways for today's generation who aspire to worldwide achievement. His career demonstrates that through persistence and skill, American athletes could thrive globally long before it became common.