For years, Dest’s worth has been defined by his ability to attack as a full back. He has always been a weapon in that position, partly due to his ability to play on the left or right. More than anything, though, Dest’s value has been his ability to impact games in the attack. It’s why he signed with Barcelona in 2020 and why now, in 2026, he’s one of the most dangerous weapons in the Eredivisie, one of the sport’s most famously attack-minded leagues.
Early in USMNT camp, Dest labeled himself as a wingback. USMNT captain Tim Ream jokingly pushed back.
“Serge is a right winger,” Ream said. “In fact, we went over video and, in some moments, he was playing like a wingback and really should have been higher.”
That’s been Dest’s MO so far during the World Cup. Playing as more of a winger, Dest has been tasked with pushing high. Behind him, the U.S. has had Alex Freeman as a right-back/third-center back providing cover, allowing Dest to do whatever he has to do in the attack.
“I think we have a good combination on the right side,” Dest said of Freeman. “I like to play with him as well. He’s strong, he’s tall, he’s fast, and a good defender. Also, we can switch sometimes, you know? That makes it even better if I’m on that side, because I can also go low and just change with him, so it’s harder for opponents to defend us because we’re more dynamic.”
In reality, Dest doesn’t often go lower. He pushes higher and higher, creating as much danger as he possibly can without the usual responsibility that comes with playing as a straight defender.
“Everybody knows that my attacking abilities are my best quality, so it gives me a little bit more space and freedom to play higher up the pitch,” he said. “I can take more risks and help the team to create two against one situations or scoring opportunities. I like the position, and wherever the coach needs me or the team needs me, I will play.”
It remains to be seen where Dest will be needed in the next game, a Round of 32 clash against Bosnia & Herzegovina, but it’s safe to say that he will be needed at some point as the U.S. prepares for bigger challenges.
