Facundo Buonanotte’s move to Chelsea was perhaps one of the most surprising transfers of the summer. However, Blues fans may understand the deal a bit more when they hear what Carlos Tevez said about the youngster a few years ago.
Chelsea completed the signing of Facundo Buonanotte, 20, from Brighton on a season-long loan in the closing stages of the transfer window.
The attacking midfielder, who usually plays as a right-winger or a No.10, spent last year on loan with Leicester City. He’s now been sent to Stamford Bridge for a campaign as part of his development.
Unfortunately, Buonanotte was omitted from Chelsea’s Champions League squad, meaning he won’t be available to play in the league phase. Let’s hope that the Argentine talent gets some opportunities in domestic fixtures instead.
What Carlos Tevez said about Facundo Buonanotte in 2022
Prior to joining Brighton in 2023, Buonanotte started his first-team journey in Argentina with Rosario Central. In fact, he was managed by former Premier League star Carlos Tevez for a spell.
Speaking in August 2022, Tevez made the bold comparison between youngster Buonanotte and legendary footballer Lionel Messi. He said via Roy Nemer on X: “I watch football and it’s been a long time since I’ve seen someone play who gives me as much pleasure as Buonanotte. When he brakes and accelerates, he reminds me of (Lionel) Messi. He is at a very high level.”
It should raise a few eyebrows that Tevez delivered such glowing praise on Buonanotte a few years ago.
Of course, Chelsea have signed a young playmaker on loan whose game is still very raw. We’ve got no doubt that he’s got a special ability with the ball at his feet, though.
Seagulls manager Fabian Hurzeler claims Buonanotte remains in Brighton’s future, so it’s quite telling that Brighton were only prepared to loan him out. Let’s wait and see if he can start to fulfil his potential under increased pressure at Stamford Bridge.
Facundo Buonanotte can fill Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall void
Last season, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall played an important role in Chelsea’s squad without ever being a key starter. The box-to-box midfielder impressed whenever he came into the side, which has ultimately earned him a move to Everton this summer.
For Buonanotte, we doubt he will force his way into Enzo Maresca’s strongest XI during this loan. Don’t be surprised if he plays well when he features, though.
The on-loan Chelsea player has the individual ability to excite his new supporters when he’s got the ball.
Brighton supporters were frustrated by Buonanotte’s move to Chelsea due to fears he wouldn’t play enough, so his Champions League omission isn’t a good start. We can still imagine him getting chances to bring his flair and creativity to the Blues team in league and cup matches.
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