American Diego Kochen is on the rise away from Barcelona
The goalkeeper is an undisputed starter at Lyngby Boldklub and has been called up to his national team
The overcrowding in Barcelona's goalkeeping department last summer forced Kochen to look for a way out to continue his development. The goalkeeper, who last season played 20 matches with the reserve team and was even included in 40 first-team squads, opted for a loan move to Lyngby Boldklub. The objective was clear: to find the consistency he was unlikely to have at Spotify Camp Nou, rack up minutes, and gain experience.
The bet is paying off. Kochen has become a regular between the posts for the Danish side. He has played all nine league matches so far and completed every one of them, a run of continuity that has allowed him to establish himself as an important part of the team.
His performances have not gone unnoticed by the national team either. The consistency he is showing in Denmark has opened the doors to the United States squad. Pochettino included him in the call-up for this international break and, moreover, gave him his debut in the match against Peru. Kochen played 45 minutes with the U.S. team, another step forward in a season that is providing a major boost to his career and could become a turning point.
The deal between Barcelona and Lyngby was finalized through a loan that includes a €1.5 million purchase option. For the blaugrana club, the formula allows the goalkeeper to continue growing, and for Kochen it represents the chance to prove week after week that he is ready to take a step forward.
For now, the numbers back up his development. Nine matches played, nine starts, and every minute completed in the league competition reflect the importance he has in his new team. The goalkeeper is therefore achieving the main objective he pursued with his departure from Barcelona: to play, gain experience, and grow. Kochen is increasing his market value.
