Cape Town City hasn’t hesitated to scout the globe for attacking talent with the signing of American midfielder Jordan Bender, a former United States under-20 international. The 21-year-old played for Orlando City in the (Major League Soccer) MLS and has shared a dressing room with former Portuguese international and Manchester United left-winger Nani, as well as ex-AC Milan forward Alexandre Pato. Not only has he played for the United States under-20 side as an attacker midfielder, but he has previously played for the USA under-16 national team too.
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The American talent shared with Cape Town City Media that playing for Orlando City in a professional environment was hard because it was his first rookie season competing with Nani for a spot on the left-wing. According to Bender, former AC Milan forward Pato was also there, saying: “It was good to learn from those players in terms of their professionalism, their skill level to get to the top.”
Bender believes his move to the tip of Africa, where he will be part of City’s maiden Caf Champions League campaign (one of the most prestigious football tournaments in the world and the most prestigious club competition in African football), is an opportunity to showcase his talent and prove his worth. The attacking midfielder signed a three-year deal with the Citizens. Welcome Jordan!
The City coach, Erick Tinkler, has already signed the experienced campaigner Marc van Heerden from Stellenbosch FC to create some depth in the team defence. Tinkler is slowly beefing up his squad that would be spanning over four competitions this season.
Furthermore, City will kick start their season with a clash against reigning DStv Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Friday 5 August 2022. With the two clubs having some classic clashes previously, supporters will no doubt be looking forward to a banging opener to the new season.
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Picture: Cape Town City FC/ Facebook