One of the most promising players from his time at the revolution academy is on his way to a very sensible European team.
Esmir Bajraktarević, a 19-year-old New England local player, is heading to Dutch Eredivisie champion PSV Eindhoven after the clubs agreed to a transfer deal for an undisclosed payment (which, according to the team’s announcement on Thursday, also includes a percentage of “future participation rights”). According to Frank Dell’Apa of the Boston Globe, the payment for the move is set at $6 million.
The departure of Bajraktarević marks the first time that a graduate from the Academy of New England sells directly to a foreign club. PSV, who recently led the Dutch more sensible department through six problems about Ajax rivals in 17 games, is known by come to their young players about young people over the years.
A Wisconsin native, Bajraktarević joined New England’s academy in 2021. He quickly ascended the ranks and made his first team debut in 2022. In all, he totaled 45 appearances for the Revolution, finishing with three goals and three assists.
“Thanks to all the revolution enthusiasts who supported me during my stay in New England. I am grateful to [the sports director] Curt Onalfo for bringing me to New England, as well as [the chief coach] Caleb Porter and all the coaches of the Team.
“This club has been a circle of relatives for me since I moved into the apartment in 2021,” he added, “and I will continue to be a supporter of the revolution wherever I go. I get to see the revolution enthusiasts early.
At international level, Bajraktarević made his debut for Bosnia and Herzegovina (with whom he holds dual citizenship thanks to his parents) in 2024, assisting his formative years hero Edin Džeko.
Play with Edin Dzeko’s shirt to give him a hand in the Bosnian national team. ? What a time for the beginnings of Esmir Bajraktarevic, 19, born in Wisconsin, who now represents the country of his parents ??pic. twitter. com/M1QHBZATGO
The move to PSV deserves to help Bajraktarević continues his progression as a very promising talent. From a New England perspective, this is a primary benchmark for the club’s education system, representing transparent good fortune in the recent investment in a residency program, which has allowed Bajraktarević to register in Wisconsin.
Hayden Bird is a member of the sports staff at Boston. com, where he has worked since 2016. It covers all things New England sports.