'The way we came back is special' - USMNT's Malik Tillman reflects on PSV Eindhoven title after overcoming ankle surgery setback

U.S. international Malik Tillman’s season looked all but over when he suffered a serious ankle injury in January that required surgery. But after intensive rehab—first in Qatar, then through a specialized five-week strengthening program in Germany—the American midfielder made a remarkable return to PSV’s lineup in April. His comeback couldn’t have come at a better time. Tillman contributed to six goals in the club’s final six matches, playing a pivotal role in their title-winning run.

Reflecting on the journey after PSV’s final game, Tillman acknowledged the hardship of dealing with injury but couldn’t hide his joy at how the season ended.

“I’ve been also injured,” Tillman told the club’s YouTube channel when asked about the season. “So for me it’s been a tough, not tough but a season with a lot of ups and downs. But yeah, the way we came back is special, and I think everyone’s happy at the end.”

PSV Eindhoven's championship represents one of the most dramatic comebacks in recent Eredivisie history. After leading the league by as many as nine points early in the season, a mid-season collapse following Tillman's injury saw them fall nine points behind Ajax with just six matches remaining. The American's return coincided with a seven-win and one-loss run that saw PSV dramatically overtake their rivals on the final matchdays.

Malik Tillman was called up to Mauricio Pochettino's Gold Cup roster and has a good chance to impress with several key players out due to either rest or the Club World Cup.