Dest criticizes Trump's interfering at 2026 World Cup calls for honesty

Team‑mate Sergiño Dest reacts to the interference of Donald Trump, who knocked on the door of FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to overturn the suspension of United States striker Falorin Balogun for the 2026 World Cup, and says that this distracted the squad. This caused unrest in the preparation.

Trump’s interference at FIFA

Trump really set tongues wagging by knocking on FIFA chief Gianni Infantino’s door to reverse the suspension of Falorin Balogun, the United States striker, for the 2026 World Cup. The former president claimed that the measure would increase the United States’ chances.

Dest says in an interview: “I think that didn’t help, because it was very distracting. For us as a group it was a bit strange overall.” He adds that everyone deep down thought this was not the right way.

“I don’t think that at a World Cup where the rules are set in advance, exceptions can be made. Although it should be advantageous for us, I still prefer fairness and justice,” says Dest.

Dest’s club matters and personal form

Dest, who already has two goals and two assists after three Eredivisie matches, looks forward to reuniting with Ajax. He notes that it “would be nicer if it came a little later”, but sees it as a good test for both his team and Ajax.

He points out that Ajax has brought in many new players, which can be both positive and less positive because the players still have to get to know each other. “It will certainly not be an easy match for us,” says Dest.

With PSV’s “truly consistent team”, Dest wants to become champion for the fourth consecutive time, but he acknowledges that the competition is getting stronger. “We have stayed at a stable level and we don’t give it up easily. We will definitely stay in the race this season,” he concludes.