The presence of Matt Besler is felt in every corner of the Sporting Kansas City locker room. Although he retired, his influence has been key for the team's young defenders. During his time, Besler established himself as one of the best in his position, and his legacy continues to live on in every training session. His tactical advice and world experience have helped shape new players, providing them with the confidence they need in critical situations.
Last weekend, in a match against St. Louis City SC, the team showcased a well-organized defensive system. Z. Bassong and E. Bartlow, who have been influenced by Besler, worked in perfect sync, contributing to keeping the clean sheet. The interactions Besler had with these players in training were evident, as their improvement in positioning and game reading stood out.
Making the leap from youth to senior level is no easy feat, and Matt understood that deeply. He has been present since the beginning of several of these players' careers, fostering an environment of trust. His sessions on how to defend against rival forwards have been crucial for consistent defending in tough situations. After the match, several players praised his impact.
Sporting Kansas City