New Mexico United Announces the Signing of Afghan International Defender David Najem

July 29, 2021 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – New Mexico United News Release

Albuquerque, NM – New Mexico United is thrilled to announce the signing of defender David Najem to the 2021 roster. This is Najem’s second stint with New Mexico. He spent the entire 2020 season on the United roster – serving as a defensive stalwart for the club on the left and right sides of the back line and midfield. Najem is the first mid-season signing in New Mexico United history.


“Naj was someone we were keen on keeping after the 2020 season, and I’m happy that we’ve reached an agreement to have him back,” said New Mexico United Head Coach and Technical Director Troy Lesesne. “He’s a highly intelligent player that has a great understanding of our style of play and we look forward to seeing him back in the black and yellow!”

Najem’s 2020 season saw him finish fourth on the team with 84.8% passing accuracy, and second in long passing accuracy at 69%. Najem has made seven appearances for the Afghanistan National Team, including five in World Cup qualifiers.

Prior to his time with New Mexico United, Najem spent time with the Tampa Bay Rowdies and New York Red Bulls II. He was part of the NYRB Academy from 2010-2016, and was the New Jersey High School Player of the Year.

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