The United States men’s national team is gearing up for their Concacaf Nations League semifinal clash with Panama at SoFi Stadium. However, coach Mauricio Pochettino will need to navigate the game without several key players. While Antonee Robinson, Johnny Cardoso, and Auston Trusty are sidelined due to health issues despite being initially named in the squad, Sergino Dest is another notable absentee.
Dest made his return to playing for PSV in early March after recovering from an ACL tear that had kept him off the field since April 2024. His comeback started on March 8th, when he came on as a substitute in a 2-1 victory over Heerenveen, replacing fellow American Richard Ledezma. He has since made one starting appearance for the Dutch club, playing 62 minutes in a win against RKC Waalwijk.
The Reason Behind Dest’s USMNT Absence
Despite his return to club football with PSV, Dest was not included in the USMNT roster. This decision is understandable considering his limited game time – just 85 minutes – in the past year. It’s deemed more beneficial for his fitness to remain with PSV during this international break rather than rushing him back into USMNT action. Dest has historically been a key player for the national team, particularly under Gregg Berhalter, and his playing style aligns with Pochettino’s tactical preferences. However, a cautious approach to his return is essential.
Joe Scally has proven to be a capable replacement at right back in Dest’s absence, ensuring the USMNT remains competitive in the tournament. The situation mirrors Tyler Adams’ recovery at Bournemouth, where the USMNT prioritized a balanced approach to his club recovery and international duties. Adams is now ready to make his first appearance under Pochettino, highlighting a similar strategy being applied to Dest’s situation.
Pochettino has emphasized the importance of maintaining positive relationships with club teams, a factor that could be beneficial in the long run. With the Gold Cup approaching in the summer, there will be further opportunities for Pochettino to evaluate Dest in a competitive setting before the 2026 World Cup. While the World Cup is drawing nearer, there is still ample time for the coach to finalize his optimal team composition.
Dominic Ashworth