Dest arrived at Barcelona as the 'New Dani Alves' but left under suspicion

Not long ago Sergiño Dest was the brightest young right-back in Europe. That's how he arrived at Barcelona, with Bayern Munich competing for his signature. That the German side wanted him so badly and given his form at Ajax, it seemed he was guaranteed to succeed at Camp Nou.

Dest had starred for Ajax from a young age. His best tricks regularly went viral. The United States international, who turned down the chance to play for the Netherlands, played at right-back but did things like a Brazilian No.10. His signing was obviously compared to that of Dani Alves from Sevilla all those years ago.

That Ronald Koeman was the Barça coach played in his favor and his first outings were promising. Several seasons have passed since then. And the player had stopped being the brightest young right-back in the game and was under suspicion at Barcelona.

Xavi Hernandez made it clear at the end of the summer he was not in his plans and he joined Milan on loan with an option to make the move permanent for €20 million. For now, Dest has not made the best of starts to life in Italy, either.

Defensively inconsistent

The USMNT player has had minutes against RB Salzburg, Dinamo Zagreb and Napoli. In total, 89 minutes, but with the same sensations as his finally days with Barça. In the last game, Milan's home defeat to Napoli, he gave away a penalty shortly after coming off the bench. It cost his team. Dest is a long way from his best form.

Milan hope he will improve as the games pass and the player wants to stay in Milan.

"I am going to give 100% so that Milan decide to keep me," he said at his presentation. He is convinced he can improve and help the team.

"I think here I can become a more complete player. Italy is famous for its excellent defenders. I will have to focus on my defensive qualities and improve my potential. Changing teams and leagues is a great chance to grow."