MLS:
While Messi joining MLS was unbelievable, his move to Inter Miami made sense considering everything. However, FC Cincinnati setting the MLS record transfer fee at $16.2 million to bring in one of the best strikers the Belgian Pro League has seen since Jonathan David is equally surprising—and perhaps an even better sign for the league. Let me explain.
Kevin Denkey, Cercle Brugge and Togo national team striker, is not only a top scorer in the Belgian Pro League, but at just 23 years old, he is firmly in his prime. An in-demand player at an in-demand position, Denkey could have landed almost anywhere in Europe. His decision to join MLS signals that, like Federico Redondo, another top young talent, he views the league as a place to continue his career trajectory—not end it.
The Nîmes youth product leaves Belgium, a highly competitive and prestigious league, as the 2023/2024 top scorer and a proven talent in Europe, having scored a hat-trick in the Europa Conference League. His arrival in MLS signifies a new era for U.S. soccer, one where players in their prime see the league as a legitimate destination.
National Team:
U20
Brooklyn Raines and company—really good company—secured a statement 2-1 victory over youth powerhouse France in their recent meeting. The match showcased a formidable defensive team performance and featured goals from Cole Campbell and Taha Habroune.
This age group, in particular, continues to be a shining diamond for U.S. soccer. Nearly every player on the roster projects as a future prospect for the senior national team, if they’re not already well on their way. Standouts like Raines, Campbell, Benjamin Cremaschi, and Aidan Banks are setting a new standard for the U.S. youth national team program, offering a glimpse of the bright future ahead for American soccer.
U16
Inter Miami’s Nash Dearmin earned his first start for the U.S. U16 Youth National Team in the second match of a two-game showcase against Mexico. The 2009-born fullback has been a standout for Inter Miami, excelling in the GA Cup last season and other key matches.
In the second game against Mexico, Dearmin delivered a strong performance, showcasing his trademark toughness and 1-on-1 defending against a skilled Mexican attack. Offensively, he was equally impressive with several success runs forward and efficiency with the ball. In the second half, he shifted to the left side and came close to scoring his first goal for the U.S, surely raising his stock even further.
The 2009 age group is rich with talent at right-back, including Houston’s Daniel Barrett, another standout who impressed during the showcase. These are players that bring more than defending to the table and with Dearmin’s versatility—his ability to play both flanks and contribute on both ends of the field—makes it clear he will be a key figure in future call-ups.
FBD | Tony DesRois
