Can you name the first ever American player to be signed by Manchester United at the age of 16? Can you name the first and only American player who has won a Champions League title? Can you name the current Technical Director of the LA Galaxy?

Tip: They are all the same person. Time’s up!  It is JOVAN KIROVSKI. His 1v1 interview begins now:

How did Manchester United see you play?

JK: I went over to England with the US youth national team when I was 16. We played against Manchester United, Liverpool, and other English clubs. A scout from Manchester United invited me for a two-week trial that next summer. United wanted me to play in MILK Cup, a youth international tournament, but their roster was full. They lent me to Glasgow Rangers for the tournament and we ended up winning. I scored 7 goals in 7 games and many clubs wanted me. Manchester United was the obvious choice for me, however. My parents were very supportive and before I knew it I was the youngest and first American playing professional soccer for one of the best teams in the world.

You are the only American to win the Champions League. If you had to describe the emotions you felt at the time in one word what would it be?

JK: AMAZING! It was a fantastic experience. I did not think about it then, but the players I was around were the best in the world. We were the Barca of now and I was a player among them.

You were only 16 years old and the first American player to be playing abroad. Was it difficult adapting to the your new environment in England with Manchester United?

JK: Being an American was not easy, but once you show them you can play everyone gives you respect.

Can you describe your emotions during your first debut for the US national team at 18 years?

JK: GREAT! I was born and raised here! I have played 62 games with the US national team and have played at the youth level as well as in the Olympics. It was always amazing playing for my country. I wanted to be the best!

Kirovski talks playing in Bundesliga and MLS after the jump