New England Revolution
One of probably the most promising players to return through the Revolution's academy is on his approach to a top European team.
Esmir Bajraktarević, a 19-year-old homegrown product from New England, is joining Dutch club PSV Eindhoven, the reigning Eredivisie champions, after the clubs agreed to a transfer deal for an undisclosed transfer fee (which, based on the team notice on Thursday, also features a percentage of “future resale rights”). According to the 's Frank Dell'WhatThe transfer fee is $6 million.
Bajraktarević's departure marks the primary time a New England Academy graduate has been sold on to an overseas club. PSV, who currently lead the Dutch top flight by six points over rivals Ajax through 17 games, are known for developing young players through the years. PSV also competes within the UEFA Champions League, widely considered the highest division of men's football on this planet.
A Wisconsin native, Bajraktarević joined New England's academy in 2021. He rose quickly and made his first team debut in 2022. In total, he played 45 games for the Revolution, ending with three goals and three assists.
“Thank you to all the Revolution fans who supported me during my time in New England. I am grateful [sporting director] Curt Onalfo, who took me to New England and there [head coach] Caleb Porter and all the coaches from the first team to the academy who helped me prepare for this next step,” Bajraktarević said in a team statement.
“This club has been a second family to me since I moved into the residence in 2021,” he added, “and I will remain a supporter of the Revolution wherever I go.” I can't wait, Revs fans see you again soon.”
At international level, Bajraktarević made his debut for Bosnia and Herzegovina (where he has dual citizenship through his parents) in 2024, assisting his childhood hero Edin Džeko.
From playing within the Edin Dzeko jersey to assisting the Bosnian national team. 🥹
What a debut moment for 19-year-old Esmir Bajraktarevic – born in Wisconsin, who now represents his parents' country 🇧🇦pic.twitter.com/m1QHbzaTgO
— Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) September 8, 2024
The move to PSV should help Bajraktarević proceed his development as a promising talent. From New England's perspective, that is a vital milestone for the club's academy system and represents a transparent success of the recent investment in a residency program that allowed Bajraktarević to transfer from Wisconsin.
image credit : www.boston.com