A torn ACL is one of the most devastating injuries in the sports world. USMNT’s Sergiño Dest, a key player for the team, suffered this crushing injury to his career, keeping him off the pitch since early April 2024. His last appearance was a bittersweet memory, a triumphant 2-0 victory against the Mexico National Team during the Nations League on March 24, 2024.
This weekend, after nearly a year away from the field, Dest was able to return to the pitch with PSV in the Eredivisie; the team where he was first on loan, after previously being on loan with AC Milan. This marked a significant milestone in his recovery journey. Last summer, he signed as a free agent with the team that showed immense patience with him and his recovery, and his return will undoubtedly boost the team’s defensive strength.
At just 24 years old, he has played for great European teams, starting his career with Ajax since his youth days. He has been considered a wasted talent, but I repeat, he is only 24 years old. After a hard recovery, he needed to learn to walk again; yet, he was able to play 30 minutes at top-level in the Netherlands against the Heerenveen . This return is a testament to his resilience.
The knee injury was a crucial factor in Dest’s eventual signing. He signed until 2028, but PSV Eindhoven refused to pay the 11 million euros they initially offered. However, Barcelona, due to financial constraints and in a strategy to create cap space, accepted to let Sergiño sign for free with the Netherlands team. They retain a percentage of any future sale, but the percentage remains unknown.
He is part of a USMNT generation that has generated significant excitement; Christian Pulisic, forward from Milan, Timothy Weah, forward and Weston McKennie, midfielder from Juventus, Tyler Adams, Midfielder from Bournemouth.
Other notable players include Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards, Fulham defender Antonee Robinson, and Real Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso. This generation is impacting the USMNT in a very positive way. Under Argentinian manager Mauricio Pochettino, there are also Barcelona Atlètic goalkeeper Diego Kochen, CD Guadalajara forward Cade Cowell, Monaco forward Folarin Balogun, Norwich City striker Josh Sargent, and Coventry City’s Haji Wright.
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