It’s not every day that one of the giants of European football come knocking at your door, and PSG’s unexpected approach for D.C. United's Luciano Acosta sent the MLS world into a frenzy.

A deadline day deal with the French leaders fell through, and Acosta immediately flew back to the States from Paris to rejoin United’s preseason camp. So much of performing at a high level in any professional sport comes down to having the mental fortitude to withstand unexpected obstacles, and both head coach Ben Olsen and captain Wayne Rooney tip the talented 24-year-old to not miss a beat when the new season kicks off. 

While any coach would mourn the loss of a key component of his squad, he can also share in the disappointment that comes with failing to take such a massive jump in one’s career. Olsen voiced his own displeasure on Tuesday at Audi Field but also praised Lucho’s attitude after such an unexpected twist.

“I said initially that I felt for Lucho. We were all rooting that his kid would go to PSG, and play in the Champions League," Olsen told media. “To his credit, he’s come back, and his professionalism, in how he goes about the job on the field, and with his teammates, has been impressive.”

The kind of chemistry and offensive production that Rooney and Acosta displayed in 2018 was truly something to behold. Rooney would have hated to see his attacking partner depart more than anyone and he revels in the fact that he will get to suit up alongside the Argentinean once again.

“I’m sure he was disappointed, but his disappointment is good news for us,” Rooney said on Tuesday. The Englishman echoed Olsen in highlighting a strong outlook and commitment to the D.C. cause upon his return.

“Since he’s come back, he’s been fantastic. Sometimes when things like this happen, you worry that the player might be down and not give everything to the team, but he’s been great in training, and great around the players.”

A stiff test against Atlanta United on Sunday provides a chance to showcase why PSG came calling now that a considerably larger audience is aware of his talents.