Hugo Bueno’s development at Feyenoord has been one of the most intriguing stories of Wolves’ loaned-out players this season. After struggling for consistent minutes under Gary O’Neil, his move to the Eredivisie has provided him with a fresh start, and he’s thriving under the guidance of Brian Priske. His performances in the Dutch league have been solid, but it’s his displays in the Champions League that are really turning heads—particularly his latest outing against AC Milan, where he played a crucial role in securing Feyenoord’s place in the last 16.
Tuesday’s match was a significant test for Bueno and his Feyenoord teammates. Going into the second leg with a narrow 1-0 advantage, they faced an AC Milan side eager to overturn the deficit at home. However, Feyenoord struck almost immediately through Santiago Gimenez, restoring their aggregate lead. Then, when Theo Hernandez was sent off for a second yellow card, the Dutch side seized the opportunity, eventually winning the tie thanks to Julian Carranza’s header—assisted perfectly by Hugo Bueno.
It was a game of two halves for the Spaniard. Starting in an unfamiliar midfield role, he initially struggled in the first half but showed resilience after the break, stepping up when his team needed him most. His assist for Carranza’s winner was a moment of true quality, showcasing his excellent crossing ability, which has been a hallmark of his play from left-back. Dutch media were quick to acknowledge his efforts, with ratings ranging from 7/10 to 8/10. Given that he was operating in an unnatural position against a European giant, this speaks volumes about his ability to adapt and perform under pressure.
The statistical side of Bueno’s performance further highlights his impact. Completing 89% of his passes (24/27) and registering two key passes, three accurate crosses, and one big chance created, he was a constant presence in Feyenoord’s attacking play. He also contributed defensively, winning four ground duels and making two interceptions. These all-around contributions suggest that his evolution as a player is far from complete—his ability to operate both as a left-back and in midfield could make him a valuable asset for Wolves in the future.
What makes his journey even more fascinating is his positional transformation. Many Wolves fans may not know that Bueno was originally signed as a number 10—a creative attacking midfielder. Former caretaker boss Steve Davis revealed that when Bueno first arrived at the club, he was a skillful but physically slight playmaker, often struggling with the physical demands of English football. His transition into a left-back was a calculated gamble, but it’s now paying off in a big way.
Now, with Bueno excelling at Feyenoord and even attracting interest from Barcelona, Wolves have a big decision to make in the summer. They could reintegrate him into the squad, potentially challenging Rayan Aït-Nouri for the left-back spot, or they could choose to cash in while his stock is high. If he continues to impress on the European stage, interest in his services will only grow, giving Wolves a potential windfall if they decide to sell.
With Wolves undergoing a transitional phase under O’Neil, adding a technically gifted, versatile player like Bueno could provide a major boost. His ability to play in multiple roles, contribute in attack, and deliver quality service into the box could help Wolves in games where they struggle to break teams down. However, if a club like Barcelona comes calling with a sizable offer, Wolves might be tempted to capitalize on his rising value.
Ultimately, it depends on how Wolves view Bueno’s long-term potential. If they believe he can develop into a key player, then bringing him back into the fold makes sense. But if they see this as an opportunity to cash in on a player who wasn’t in their plans last season, a transfer could be on the cards. Either way, Bueno’s growth at Feyenoord is proving to be one of the most exciting success stories of the season, and all eyes will be on him as he continues his journey in the Champions League.