When Juventus and PSV meet in the Champions League, Americans will be on full display due to each squad having multiple members of the United States men's national team in their setups. Players like Tim Weah, Weston McKennie and even Malik Tillman and Ricardo Pepi are well known to USMNT watchers. But, the one player who could have the biggest role may be the last to come to mind. PSV right back Richard Ledezma has been thrown into a new position this season and is thriving while helping fill the void left by Sergino Dest's ACL injury at right back.
Ledezma is naturally an attacking midfielder and has actually appeared in every midfield or attacking position before this season, but when Peter Bosz came to him before PSV's first game of the season and said, you're a right back now, he stepped up. PSV has kept two consecutive clean sheets in Eredivisie play, only allowing three goals while scoring 20 and Ledezma's defensive and attacking play has been key to both.
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"When the coach first told me I was playing right back it was the day before the game I remember, Jordan Teze was making his move to Monaco, and when he told me I was a bit in shock," Ledezma said about the transition on CBS Sport Golazo's Morning Footy. "But, I was ready to be on the pitch after a long time with PSV. It's been really nice playing and like you said I played my first 90 minutes for PSV and it's a learning experience and a process, but it's been fun."
Despite being in the PSV system since 2019, after making a move to the Netherlands from Real Salt Lake, Ledezma struggled to make regular appearances for the club before this season. A loan to New York City FC that saw Ledezma play all over the pitch ended up being transformative, due to regular minutes allowing him make an impression on the coaching staff. Ledezma easily could've pushed for a move that guaranteed first team soccer during the summer, but instead sticking things out has ended with him now in a crucial role for PSV.
Ledezma's Defensive Transformation
Defenders are expected to be strong in possession under Bosz and Ledezma's attacking experience helps out with that. Playing all over on the Yankee Stadium pitch, he had to be very aware of bounces of the ball and how they impact play which translates directly to defense.
"I have a winning mentality now and my dream was to always play in Europe and that's a big part of me, to always try to play at the top level," Ledezma said. "When I came back from NYCFC I got an opportunity and I'm taking it well, so I hope that I can keep going on the same track."
That dream will be taken to a new level on Tuesday against Juventus in the biggest game of Ledezma's young career to date. PSV has their eyes set on making the knockouts and defense will be critical in helping get them there. If Ledezma can continue his strong performances, knockout stage soccer may not be the only thing in his future.
Is Ledezma the Real Deal at Right Back?
While he'd be honored to represent the USMNT on the international stage, he's still not cap tied and hasn't closed the door on representing Mexico if they call. The latest dual national pull could be coming in the future but for now, Ledezma will be focused on the task at hand, leading PSV as far as possible in Champions League play.
Ledezma's transition from an attacking midfielder to a right back has been vital for PSV's success, but it remains to be seen if this is a long-term solution for both player and club. PSV has benefited from his strong performances, securing clean sheets while he excels in both defensive and attacking roles. This match against Juventus marks the biggest moment in Ledezma's career, with hopes of advancing to the knockout stages on the line.
The Future is Now for Ledezma
Ledezma has embraced a crucial new role at PSV, potentially impacting both his future career and aspirations of representing the USMNT on the international stage. His performance in the Champions League could define his trajectory and further solidify his place in European soccer. His performance against Juventus will be a key indicator of his long-term potential in this position, and could open doors for his future, including potential international call-ups for either the USMNT or Mexico, as he remains a dual national still uncommitted.
It is a huge opportunity for Ledezma to prove his worth on the grandest of stages. His performance could lead to a permanent switch to right back, or it could push him back into the attacking positions he knows best. But, for now, the future is now for Ledezma, and he is ready to seize the moment.
