Esmir Bajraktarevic's Historic Transfer
Esmir Bajraktarević Exemplifies the Potential of Pro Player Pathway
The New England Revolution made history when Esmir Bajraktarević was transferred to PSV Eindhoven of the Dutch Eredivisie. Bajraktarević is the first homegrown player the Revolution have developed and transferred to a European club. The move to the Netherlands is a great step in Esmir’s career and signifies a monumental moment for youth development in New England.
The Revs have a history of their players going to Europe. Michael Parkhurst signed for a club in the Danish league. More recently, homegrown player Justin Rennicks signed with a club in Finland. The common theme is that everyone moved abroad after their contracts with the Revs expired.
A more recent phenomenon is the transferring of players overseas before their contracts are up. In essence, getting something in return for a talented player leaving the squad. Recent years have seen the Revs develop and then transfer multiple players coming out of the collegiate system, such as Matt Turner (Arsenal) and Tajon Buchanan (Club Brugge).
The Revs have also signed players from abroad, developed those players, and then transferred them to European clubs. Of note, Djordje Petrovic (Chelsea) and Adam Buksa (Lens).
The ability of the Revs to develop players and move them on to bigger clubs is an attractive reason for young players to sign here. It is something that can set the Revs apart from other MLS teams, and the money being re-invested into the squad will be an important factor in their success moving forward.
MLS is a selling league — as we have seen — and you have to make the most of the players you sign at a low cost. It will take the development of those players, in addition to having designated players and TAM/GAM signings, to hoist an MLS Cup.
What is so remarkable about Bajraktarević going to PSV, is that he is a product of the pro player pathway. He is a kid from Wisconsin who was identified and incorporated into the Residency Program of the Revolution Academy. Bajraktarević excelled and moved up the pathway, spending time with Revolution II before becoming the first Academy player from the Residency Program to sign a contract with the first team. The winger soon became a full-time part of the senior roster, his talent on display for the world to see.
Bajraktarević's trajectory is exemplary and should be an inspiration for the kids in the Academy. His journey could be their journey. There is something so special about a homegrown player succeeding and going to one of the better leagues in the world.
The Revolution are increasingly becoming part of the global soccer ecosystem. There is now a pathway for the youth of New England to reach the highest levels of the game. Anything is possible for those with big dreams, so long as they have the skill, work hard, stay dedicated to their craft, and get a bit of luck.
“The Revolution are increasingly becoming part of the global soccer ecosystem.” I love this. Idk why. It always felt like the Revs played a different sport from the rest of the world.