USMNT Star Dest Suffers Hamstring Injury Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Injury to key defender Sergiño Dest raises concerns for Mauricio Pochettino and the U.S. national team before the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Sergiño Dest, a key defender for the U.S. men's national team, suffered a hamstring injury while playing for his club team PSV Eindhoven. The injury is expected to keep Dest out of the USMNT's upcoming friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, the final international matches before the 2026 World Cup roster is announced. Dest has a history of recent injuries, including a serious ACL tear that caused him to miss the 2024 Copa América.

Why it matters

Dest's injury is a major concern for the USMNT as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup. As a talented right-back, Dest is an important part of the U.S. squad, and his absence could create challenges for manager Mauricio Pochettino in finalizing his World Cup roster and tactics.

The details

Dest was forced off the field during PSV's match against AZ Alkmaar after clutching his left hamstring early in the second half. The extent of the injury is not yet known, but it is expected to keep Dest out of the USMNT's upcoming friendlies. Despite the setback, Dest remains optimistic about returning before the end of the domestic season. Before the injury, Dest had been enjoying an impressive campaign, starting 24 league matches for PSV, who currently sit atop the Eredivisie table.

  • Dest was injured during PSV's match against AZ Alkmaar on March 9, 2026.
  • The USMNT's upcoming friendlies against Belgium and Portugal are scheduled for the international window before the 2026 World Cup, which begins on June 12.

The players

Sergiño Dest

A 25-year-old right-back who plays for PSV Eindhoven and is a key defender for the U.S. men's national team.

Mauricio Pochettino

The manager of the U.S. men's national team, who is preparing the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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What they’re saying

“I'm out for a little while to do what I love the most. But one thing for sure this is NOT the end of the season! I'll do everything in my power to make sure that I'm coming back asap on the right timing.”

— Sergiño Dest (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This injury to Sergiño Dest is a significant setback for the USMNT as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup. Dest's technical ability and attacking instincts make him a valuable asset, and his absence could force Pochettino to adjust his tactics and lineup. The team will be closely monitoring Dest's recovery in the hopes that he can regain fitness and be available for the tournament.