Ruud van Nistelrooy has explained why he chose to drop Facundo Buonanotte and what he has in store for the Leicester City star.
Leicester fans were shocked by Van Nistelrooy’s team selection after he dropped the young Argentine in favour of Jordan Ayew, who returned from suspension for the Foxes’ defeat against Aston Villa.
Buonanotte came off the bench at Villa Park whereas Ayew started and registered an assist.
After establishing himself as one of Leicester’s best players this season, Buonanotte has only started two games under the new Foxes boss and questions have been asked about the youngster’s absence from the starting line-up in recent weeks.
Ruud van Nistelrooy explains why he dropped Facundo Buonanotte for Villa defeat
Despite impressing at the King Power Stadium last week, it was Buonanotte who was sacrificed from the starting XI.
The form of Stephy Mavididi has been patchy to say the least in recent weeks whereas the on-loan Brighton & Hove Albion star has looked capable of creating something out of nothing.
Van Nistelrooy was quizzed about his decision to drop the Argentine international from the squad and he revealed that the attacking midfielder still has plenty to offer.
| Facundo Buonanotte Stats vs Aston Villa | |
| Minutes played | 13 |
| Touches | 7 |
| Passes | 2 |
| Successful passes | 1/2 |
| Sofascore rating | 6.6 |
He said: “I think Jordan had an excellent game, he did really well with JJ controlling the right side His experience, leadership helping the team.
“Facundo is also a vital member of the team and will be very important in the months to come and help us to perform and he knows I’m thinking of him like that.”
Facundo Buonanotte’s Leicester future is made clear after loan clause details emerges
One of the big worries about a player performing well out on loan is the risk that their parent club recalls them back to include them in their plans.
There have certainly been fears that Brighton may recall Buonanotte, but thankfully, some fresh details emerged earlier in the week.
According to a clause in the 20-year-old’s contract, Brighton are unable to recall him from the East Midlands as he has already played too many games this season.
Sadly for Leicester, it doesn’t look as if they will keep Buonanotte beyond the end of this season, with Brighton confirming that they have plans to utilise him in the 2025/26 campaign.