Earlier this month, we saw the big controversy regarding clubs not letting some players take part in the U-20 World Cup.
Brighton & Hove Albion are one of the Premier League sides who had issues, as they chose to block Facundo Buonanotte from taking part in the tournament, which is being hosted in his home country.
The player’s patience and respect for the decision paid off, though, since he was now called up by Argentina’s first team. He discussed that in an interview with TyC Sports.
The 18-year-old has just arrived in his home country following the end of the season with Brighton, and discussed having missed the U-20 World Cup.
“The Brighton manager told me that I wasn’t going to the U-20s because I was important and that I was going to play, and he complied because I ended up playing.”
“As you know, I fought a lot to be in the World Cup, I spoke with everyone, with the coaching staff, with the leaders and finally an agreement could not be reached and the truth is that it bothered me a lot because I really wanted to be there and it could not be but obviously I remain calm because I left everything to be.”
“It was a hard moment, I really wanted to be here in the U-20 World Cup and not being able to be there obviously hurt me because I really wanted to be here, but this is a nice opportunity and a new dream, I hope I can help my teammates.”
Regarding the chance to make his debut in the first team, Buonanotte claims to be very excited about it.
“I’m really happy to be part of the call, I found out a day after the list came out that I was going to be part and on Monday it was confirmed, so I’m very happy to be there with them.”
“Everything happened very quickly, I’m living a very nice moment, I’m enjoying it, it’s something incredible, I dreamed. I imagine, having a snack or lunch next to those players, sharing the dressing room, it will be a great experience.”
Argentina are set to face Australia and Indonesia in friendlies this month, and that’ll be a great chance for Buonanotte to leave a good first impression at the national team.
He may not have taken part in the U-20 World Cup, but his start with Brighton showed he deserved even more.
