Aston Villa midfielder Emi Buendia has officially extended his contract with the club before embarking on a loan move to Bayer Leverkusen for the remainder of the season. The 28-year-old Argentine, who joined Villa from Norwich City in 2021 for a record fee of £33 million, has made 97 appearances for the team, netting 10 goals along the way. Notably, Buendia earned his first international cap for Argentina in February 2022, further highlighting his potential on the global stage.
Buendia's recent season has been marred by an anterior cruciate ligament injury, which sidelined him for the entirety of the 2023-24 campaign until his return in September. He made his comeback as a substitute in a match against Everton, marking a significant milestone in his recovery journey.
The loan to Bayer Leverkusen, currently sitting second in the Bundesliga, presents a vital opportunity for Buendia to regain his form and fitness. With Leverkusen trailing league leaders Bayern Munich by eight points, the competitive nature of the Bundesliga could serve as the perfect environment for Buendia to showcase his abilities. As reported by the BBC, this loan arrangement is viewed as a strategic move that could benefit both the player and Aston Villa.
Given Leverkusen's strong position in the league, Buendia will have the chance to demonstrate his skills in one of Europe’s premier competitions. His experience in the Premier League, coupled with the challenges of the Bundesliga, could significantly aid his development as a player. Aston Villa will undoubtedly keep a close eye on his progress during this period, eager to maximise his potential upon his return.
In summary, Buendia’s contract extension and subsequent loan to Bayer Leverkusen mark a pivotal chapter in his career. This move allows him to rebuild both physically and mentally while contributing to a team that is in contention for the Bundesliga title. As he embarks on this new venture, both Aston Villa and Leverkusen will be hopeful that this opportunity reignites his previous form, paving the way for a successful return to Villa Park.