Facundo Buonanotte has Leicester City fans falling head over heels.
Although he’s only on loan from Brighton, this 19-year-old attacking midfielder has become a breakout star for Leicester and is showing why he’s one of the Premier League’s most exciting young talents.
Though his stay might be short, Buonanotte has made a huge impact since arriving at Leicester. The Argentinian has consistently dazzled with his performances and is currently the club’s standout player this season.
It’s easy to see why Carlos Tevez, his former coach at Rosario Central, once spoke about Buonanotte in the same breath as Lionel Messi. Buonanotte, however, humbly downplays these comparisons, saying, “No, it’s impossible.”
Comparisons with Messi
Yet there are hints of Messi in Buonanotte’s style. Both players hail from the Santa Fe province, share a left-footed finesse, and possess a similar ability to maneuver skillfully in tight spaces.
“He was my idol growing up, my absolute hero,” Buonanotte says, smiling as he recalls watching Messi’s legendary performances for Barcelona against Real Madrid. “I think Tevez was probably referring to my quickness, but it’s an honor he even made the comparison.”
Despite his modesty, Buonanotte is making a name for himself in the Premier League. With his 20th birthday approaching in December, he’s a young talent to watch, and Brighton, his parent club, is well aware of his potential.
For now, though, Buonanotte’s focus is on Leicester, where he’s quickly become a crucial player under head coach Steve Cooper. As Leicester prepare for their upcoming match against Ipswich, Buonanotte is eager to add to his impressive tally of three goals and two assists.
“As a No. 10, those stats are what keep us going,” he says, sharing that he thrives on entertaining fans and helping the team win in any way he can, whether it’s creating plays or winning the ball back.
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The connection he’s built with Leicester fans is something he cherishes. “There’s a great vibe with the supporters, and I want to pay them back with my performances on the pitch.”
Adapting to life in England, Buonanotte has been taking English lessons three times a week and settling in well at Leicester. Cooper’s tactical setup, which allows Buonanotte to play freely behind the striker, gives him room to express himself on the field.
One of his standout moments came in early October, with a stunning goal against Bournemouth. Cutting in from the right, Buonanotte outmaneuvered defenders before rocketing the ball into the top corner. “I feel most comfortable in a free role, starting on the right and moving in,” he says. “I’m not just a No. 10 or a 7—I’m somewhere in between.”
For Buonanotte, the chance to work with Cooper was a big part of his decision to join Leicester. Cooper’s reputation for developing young talent made Leicester an appealing choice, and Buonanotte says he has already felt Cooper’s faith in him.
Before signing, Cooper showed him clips of his games at Brighton, detailing how he could make an impact at Leicester. “I felt like I’d found a club with a lot of ambition, and Steve’s confidence in me was a big draw.”
Last game
Buonanotte admits Leicester’s recent 3-1 loss to Forest was disappointing but remains optimistic. “Sometimes you have a bad game, and that’s what happened against Forest. The key is to move forward.”
Brighton, meanwhile, remains closely involved in Buonanotte’s progress, despite loaning him out. They’re regularly in contact with him and Cooper to monitor his development, even sending Gordon Greer, their pathway development manager, for a check-in next week.
Buonanotte feels valued by Brighton and knows they have big plans for him in the future. “Brighton was the first club to trust me in England, and they’re always letting me know they’re watching and supporting me.”
Reflecting on his journey, Buonanotte remembers the support of his family. His dad, Mauricio, bought him his first football at four, and from then on, he played locally before joining Rosario Central at ten. Five years later, he debuted in the first team, catching Brighton’s eye soon after.
In his two years since arriving in England, Buonanotte has had incredible experiences, including playing alongside his idol Messi on the Argentina national team. “Watching him train is amazing,” he says. “He just makes everything look so effortless.”
Buonanotte already has two caps for Argentina and recalls sitting in awe with his teammates when Messi scored a hat-trick against Bolivia. “We just laughed like kids. Messi has that effect on everyone.”
Leicester fans feel a similar admiration for Buonanotte, whose incredible potential makes it hard not to root for his success. And while his loan spell may only last a season, he’s already given Leicester fans memories they’ll cherish.
