CT City sign ex-Orlando midfielder

Cape Town City have confirmed the acquisition of Jordan Bender on a free transfer.

The 21-year-old last played for Orlando City in the United States. He joins Eric Tinkler’s side on a three-year deal.

As reported by this publication a fortnight ago, Bender was at City in January. However, the club could not complete his signing as he was still sorting out his South African citizenship application.

The midfield maestro became the first Orlando player to make the journey up the club’s development pyramid from the Academy to Orlando City B and, finally, a First Team contract. 

He made his Major League Soccer debut last year on October 14 against New York City FC and started his first MLS match on November 8, 2021, against Nashville SC.

“Playing for Orlando City in a professional environment is hard over there because was competing in my first rookie season with Luis Nani and Pato but left for a year. But it was also good to learn from these players,” said Bender on signing his contract.

“A lot of young players get super discouraged when they don’t get the success the other young players are getting. A lot of people get to quit too soon because they see how difficult it really is.

“I just have to keep working hard and see what happens. I’m not going to talk a lot about myself now, but belief here at Cape Town City is a perfect opportunity to try to prove myself as a player and whatever happens, we will see.”

Bender becomes the second player to sign for the Citizens after the acquisition of highly-rated defender Marc van Heerden from neighbours Stellenbosch also on a free transfer.

The Cape club is about to embark on their CAF Champions League journey after finishing second in the DStv Premiership the last term.

Bender will be expected to help his new side to reach the Promised Land come the end of the 2022/23 campaign.

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