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USL New Mexico United

New Mexico United Welcomes Accomplished Defender to the 2020 Squad

January 31, 2020 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
New Mexico United News Release


ALBUQUERQUE, NM - Fans around New Mexico anxiously awaiting the 2020 New Mexico United season were eager to learn of the team's newest signing, following a social media post teasing the announcement. Fans didn't have long to wait, as the team announced today that defender David Najem (nah-gem) will join New Mexico United in 2020, pending federation and league approval.

This new signing brings United's current roster total to 22. Prior 2020 roster announcements from New Mexico United included 15 returning players from the inaugural season, plus the additions of defender Kalen Ryden, goalkeeper Philipp Beigl, and forwards Amando Moreno, Romeo Parkes, and Samson Sergi.

Hailing from Clifton, New Jersey, Najem's success began early. He spent time in the New York Red Bulls academy from 2010-2016, earned NSCAA New Jersey High School Player of the year, and was named to the NSCAA/Adidas First Team All America.

"I'm thrilled to be joining this exciting new soccer club. What they accomplished on the field and in the community in their inaugural season was truly something special, said Najem. "I can't wait to get to work to further these successes in year two."

From 2010 to 2013, Najem played for Columbia University where he made 64 total appearances (61 starts), scored 10 goals, and notched 8 assists. His stellar performance on the field led to him being named Ivy League Rookie of the league two times, and to the Second Team All-Ivy League twice. In his final season with Columbia, Najem was named to the All Ivy-League First Team and was awarded Ivy League Offensive Player of the Year.

"David possesses an incredible mentality that's lifted each club he's played with over the last four seasons in the USL," said Head Coach Troy Lesesne. "He's superb technically and has a great understanding of the game. I'm looking forward to working with him and seeing the impact he makes with our club."

After spending two seasons with Bayernliga side FC Eintracht Bamberg, Najem returned to the States to play two seasons for USL championship side New York Red Bulls II, who took home the USL Championship Cup in 2016. Najem most recently was signed with Tampa Bay Rowdies, and currently is a member of the Afghan National Team, with 3 caps and one assist.

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