HARRISON, N.J. (May 19, 2016) – New York Red Bulls II has signed midfielder and former Red Bulls academy player David Najem, the club announced today.
Najem, a native of Clifton, N.J., joins the club after spending two seasons in Regionalliga Bayern, Germany’s Fourth Division, with FC Eintracht Bamberg 2010.
“I’ve had a long relationship with David and he’s been with the club in the past,” head coach John Wolyniec said. “He came through our academy and he’s someone we’ve had our eye on for a long time. David was over in Germany for a bit, came back and it made sense to have him back. We’re looking forward to having him and he’s a kid that’s going to add a lot to this squad.”
The 23-year-old played 37 games between 2014 and 2015 with FC Eintracht Bamberg 2010, scoring two goals. Prior to beginning his professional career in Germany, Najem played college soccer at Columbia University. Upon graduating early in December 2013, the midfielder made 64 appearances for the Lions, scoring 10 goals and adding 11 assists.
During his Columbia career, he was a four-time All-Ivy League selection, including first team honors as a senior after leading the Lions with 16 points on five goals and six assists. His offensive prowess earned him Ivy League Offensive Player of the Year accolades by College Sports Madness.
The midfielder also spent a number of years with the Red Bulls academy, beginning at age 14. Since then, he has played for the Red Bulls U-16s, U-18s and U-23s in NPSL. With the Red Bulls U-23s, Najem played three seasons (2010, 2011, 2013).
Najem attended Paramus Catholic High School where he was a two-time captain and set the school record with 54 goals and 146 career points in his career. In 2009, he was named the NSCAA New Jersey High School Player of the Year and adidas/NSCAA First Team All-America selection.
Najem is the twelfth player signed to a USL contract on the Red Bulls II roster, and the club’s seventh signing of 2016.
David Najem
- Position: Midfielder
- Hometown: Clifton, N.J.
- Date of Birth: 5/26/92
- Citizenship: United States
- Previous Club: FC Eintracht Bamberg 2010
- How acquired: Signed with NYRB II on May 19, 2016.
