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Sergino Dest’s days at Barcelona were numbered ever since manager Xavi Hernandez said publicly that the U.S. men’s national team defender had no place in the squad anymore, making a move before the summer transfer window closed all the more urgent for Dest.
– USMNT’s Dest completes AC Milan loan
After being linked to Manchester United and Villarreal, the 21-year-old right-back has found his landing spot: He’s off to Italy to play for AC Milan on loan, in a deal that includes a €20 million option for a permanent transfer.
With the World Cup just three months away and Dest having been a key figure for the U.S. squad in the leadup to the tournament, the timing of this move could have big implications not just for Barcelona and AC Milan, but also for the U.S. national team and for Dest’s own future.
ESPN U.S. national team reporter Jeff Carlisle and ESPN Barcelona reporter Sam Marsden take a closer look.
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Why did Dest need to leave Barcelona?
A combination of factors led to his exit, and in part, he is a victim of circumstance. But while the club’s financial situation proved the final nail in his coffin, it’s also true that Xavi cited tactical reasons when the two spoke earlier this month.
After almost a year in charge, Xavi remained unconvinced that Dest suited his style of play. He made that clear by leaving him out of the squad for Barca’s three league games so far this season. Still, Dest insisted on his desire to remain at Camp Nou; as recently as last week, sources close to the player told ESPN he intended to stay even as intermediaries and the club worked on finding him a move.
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However, as deadline day neared, Dest decided to reevaluate his options in part because even if he…
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Source : espn
