Sergiño Dest, a United States defender, expressed his enthusiasm about the possibility of Mauricio Pochettino becoming the men’s national team coach. Despite Dest’s recent ACL injury that may keep him out until 2025, he sees the Argentine coach’s potential as a significant boost for the team. Dest’s anticipation is evident as he highlights Pochettino’s reputation for player development, especially during his time at Tottenham from 2014-2019. The prospect of training under a well-known coach like Pochettino excites Dest, who believes it could contribute to a successful 2026 World Cup campaign for the US, given that the tournament will be held in their home country.
While Dest eagerly awaits the news of Pochettino’s official appointment, the U.S. is preparing for two upcoming friendlies against Canada and Panama in September. Former USMNT assistant Mikey Varas is set to lead the team for these matches, and ESPN has reported that Pochettino has already agreed to take over from Gregg Berhalter, with final details pending. The anticipated debut for Pochettino as the USMNT coach is expected to be against Mexico in October, though Dest expresses eagerness to get back with the team post-injury to support them during upcoming camps and matches.
Recovery from ACL Injury
Dest acknowledges that his torn ACL is the most significant injury he has faced in his career, leading to his absence from the field since April. Despite undergoing surgery for the injury in May, Dest remains positive about his recovery, aiming to return to club football with PSV Eindhoven by January 2025. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing his knee’s health over rushing back to playing, indicating a cautious approach to his rehabilitation process. While the mental challenges of dealing with such a long layoff from the sport are present, Dest is determined to focus on his recovery journey step by step.
Dest reflects on the unexpected nature of his injury, initially believing it would be a short-lived setback. However, upon learning of the nine-month recovery timeline, he faced the reality of a lengthy rehabilitation period. Despite the initial shock and disappointment, Dest has embraced the challenge as an opportunity to grow stronger. He acknowledges the emotional toll of not being able to play but remains composed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a patient and disciplined approach to his recovery.
Sergiño Dest’s excitement about Mauricio Pochettino’s potential role as the USMNT coach, coupled with his resilience in overcoming a significant ACL injury, highlights his dedication to both personal recovery and national team success. As he navigates through this challenging period, Dest’s positive attitude and unwavering focus on regaining full fitness serve as a testament to his determination and commitment to returning stronger than before.
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