Moises Caicedo: The Rising Star of Brighton and Hove Albion
Brighton & Hove Albion’s player of the season is not an easy decision to make this year. With 17 players on the score sheet across all competitions and four players reaching double figures in goals, including Alexis Mac Allister as the top scorer with 12 goals, there are many viable alternatives for the prize. However, one player stands out from the crowd: Moises Caicedo.
Caicedo, the young Ecuadorian midfielder, is not a typical goal-scorer for Brighton; in fact, he has only scored one goal this season. However, his contribution to the team goes far beyond the goals he has scored. Caicedo is quick, mobile, and combative in the midfield, while his ability to regain possession with his anticipation and tackling makes him a valuable asset for the team. What’s more, his performance as an emergency right-back in the recent victories against Manchester United and Arsenal demonstrated his versatility and adaptability, qualities that make him the most outstanding player of the season.
At only 21 years old, Caicedo has a lot of room for further growth, and his skill set is rare to find. Therefore, it is hardly surprising that Arsenal made a £70million bid for him in January. Although Brighton refused to sell him midway through the season, it is rumored that the summer may be different. If Caicedo continues to perform at such a high level, Arsenal or another club will have to pay an estimated £90million to secure his services.
Caicedo’s idol growing up was N’Golo Kante, and he can potentially reach the level of the Chelsea star when he was in his injury-free prime. His new contract with Brighton until 2027, with an option for the club of a further year, demonstrates the club’s faith in his abilities and potential.
Caicedo’s contribution to the team this season cannot be underestimated, and his performances have made him the most special among an array of credible options. He truly has trumped an influential World Cup winner and top scorer for the club and shown why he is Brighton’s Rising Star.
