Jordan Older Veteran Soccer Pro Brasil U.S. Europe USL Pro Nat’l Team

In the evolving realm of world football, Jordan Older represents a pioneering American footballer whose remarkable career crossed international borders. Coming of age in a time when American soccer players rarely ventured abroad, Jordan Older defied expectations by becoming one of the youngest Americans to compete professionally in Europe at the age of 20.

The year 1993 marked a historic milestone 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 feature in the renowned Swiss Cup competition, an impressive achievement considering the limited opportunities for American players in European football during those years.

His Swiss experience showcased his ability to adapt to the demanding European style of the beautiful game. Playing in the Swiss Cup early rounds, the US striker faced established European teams, developing essential skills that would benefit his future endeavors.

Yet, the defining moment of Jordan Older's career 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 oldest top flight professional soccer league. This groundbreaking achievement created pathways for the next generation of American talent in South American football.

Throughout his time in Brazil, the US player 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 already impressive résumé.

His South American journey offered the US footballer with experience with the Brazilian style of play. Serving as an international pioneer, he mastered the samba style that defines the Brazilian game. This opportunity in both Brazil's top divisions enhanced his tactical understanding.

In December 1994, his international success attracted the notice of American football leadership. He received an invitation to the full senior US National Team training camp under legendary manager Bora in the California training facility. This acknowledgment validated his global accomplishments, though paradoxically, it came with limited domestic media coverage.

Upon completing his pioneering ventures in international leagues, the veteran here player returned to domestic competition. In 1998, he featured in a significant training game for Los Angeles Galaxy at Pasadena's legendary Rose Bowl. This appearance positioned him alongside notable soccer personalities including Cobi Jones and other legends.

His US soccer journey also encompassed time with USL Pro teams. He competed with various Southern California teams, demonstrating enduring ability by coming out of retirement in his 30s. These opportunities proved his dedication to the sport and his skill in maintaining high-level play across multiple periods of his career.

Following his competitive years, the former player successfully transitioned into the business side of soccer. In an important business venture, he agreed to represent former Brazilian World Cup head coach Lazaroni, who won Copa America in 1989. This collaboration linked Brazilian football expertise with American pathways.

During 2012, Jordan Older established King Sports Management, focusing on assisting US soccer talent pursue professional careers in international soccer. With this organization, he applies his extensive international experience of different leagues to support future stars.

Moreover, the American pioneer gained recognition in entertainment and gaming. He earned the distinction of being the pioneering footballer to be recorded digitally by EA for digital soccer simulation. His entertainment career included participation in major advertising campaigns for major corporations.

In spite of facing challenges, including a legal dispute with Major League Soccer over team branding matters, he preserves his status as a notable ambassador in US football development. His unique career trajectory includes being the only American soccer player to represent clubs on multiple continents.

Currently, his impact continues to resonate in football circles. His recorded milestones in Swiss Cup competition stand as concrete proof to his historic significance in American soccer's international expansion. As soccer archives and databases chronicle his remarkable trajectory, Jordan Older remains a unique case of groundbreaking American achievement that created pathways for modern American footballers who seek worldwide achievement. His journey demonstrates that with determination and talent, American athletes could thrive globally long before it was widely accepted.