Sergino Dest’s transfer from Ajax to Barcelona generated quite a buzz. In fact, some fans even labeled the US fullback as the 2nd coming of the legendary Dani Alves. However, what followed was a period of inconsistency with Dest not being an integral part of the first time. This led to him being loaned out from the side, but interestingly, the US star doesn’t regret the move to Spain. While he deems his stint at Barcelona to be a ‘special‘ one, could the experience of playing and watching Lionel Messi have played a part?

The former Ajax star is playing for PSV Eindhoven, one of the most in-form sides in Europe. With 16 wins in 16 games, PSV has been on a roll and Dest has been a major factor in their dominance. Has the iconic Lionel Messi played a minor role, if any, in Dest’s dream run at PSV?

Sergino Dest is ‘grateful’ for ‘historic club’ experience alongside Lionel Messi

The flying fullback seems to have good memories of his time at the Catalan club as per his interview with De Telegraaf. Dest detailed what inspired him to make the move to the iconic Camp Nou. “It was very special for me to play for Barcelona ​​because my great idol Ronaldinho also played there. I really enjoyed that time“, he said. He added, “It has been a bit less lately, but I am grateful that I was able to play at such a historic club.” It seems like Dest did not enjoy having his minutes reduced. However, he certainly enjoyed playing with soccer icon Lionel Messi.

He explained, “I played with Messi for one year, and even though it is impossible to do what he does, I learned a lot of things just by watching him.” Watching the technically gifted right-back now, Messi’s influence is evident.

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One reason that contributed to Dest falling down the pecking order at Barcelona was his defensive game. He was not a player who enjoyed defending and had issues when marking top wingers. Yet, one player clearly troubled him much more than others as he also spoke about his biggest challenge.

Dest aspires to ‘get back to the top’ quickly while looking back at facing Mbappe

It’s been almost 3 years since the PSV man faced off against Kylian Mbappe in the 2021 UEFA Champions League. Yet, the experience remains vivid in Dest’s mind. He explained, “Kylian Mbappe is really the toughest opponent I have had, although I didn’t think I did that bad, especially in the first half. You learn so much from a competition like that. That is why I want to get back to the top as quickly as possible.”

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This was the match where the Frenchman bagged a hat trick. Dest did not have a great match and was substituted by manager Ronald Koeman. The match resulted in Barcelona’s elimination from the UCL and spelled doom for Dest’s Barcelona career.

Did Barcelona fumble the bag with Sergino Dest? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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