Why Noel Buck’s return to New England Revolution is a game-changer for 2025 | OneFootball

Noel Buck is back with the New England Revolution. The 19-year-old midfielder heads back to Massachusetts following a loan spell in the Premier League at Southampton, where he made six appearances for the U-21 side. But what does this return really mean to the Revolution and Buck's career? Let's analyze.

A Young player with experience and potential

At only 19, Noel Buck has numbers and experiences that most players at twice his age would kill for. The hometown kid from Arlington, Massachusetts, already has 45 MLS games under his belt, with 30 starts, five goals scored, and three assists across those matches-the definition of an exciting piece for the midfield position.

His early form in MLS earned him the attention of Southampton, and although his time in English soccer was limited to six U-21 appearances, the fact that he trained and competed in a high-level environment brings maturity and new perspectives to his game. He returns to the Revolution as a more complete player, with experiences that can directly impact his performance in MLS.

Buck's impact on the Revolution

Coming into the 2025 season, the New England Revolution have made a number of changes to their roster, including the departures of key midfielders such as Mark-Anthony Kaye and Ian Harkes. Buck's return, therefore, comes at the right time. He joins Matt Polster, Alhassan Yusuf, and Jackson Yueill to form a central midfield contingent that combines youth, experience, and versatility.

Coach Bruce Arena will have in Buck a creative and dynamic option to organize midfield. In addition, his connection with the local fan base is a plus: Buck is a product of the Revolution Academy, which tightens the ties between the club and its community.

Buck's growth in his international career

While he is a local player for MLS, Buck also has international aspirations. Clearly, evidence that such a young midfielder is on the radar is when he represented England at the U-19 and U-20 level in youth teams, having scored one goal in eight appearances to date, the possibility of eventually receiving a senior call-up for the England national side should not be discounted, especially on condition that Buck continues his evolution in his place.

This international element also helps the Revolution. Having a player with potential worldwide recognition adds value to the club and may attract attention from other markets. For Buck, MLS can be a stepping stone to make his name as an elite midfielder.

A story connecting talent and family

Adding even more to the emotional value of Buck's return is the presence of his older brother, Joe Buck, who signed his first professional contract with Revolution II. The brothers now share not only a love for soccer but also wear the same crest on their jerseys. That family dynamic could be a motivating factor in the growth of both in the professional scene.

Joe, who comes in after an illustrious collegiate career at Georgetown University, still has his route to the first team to navigate. Still, Noel's experience and leadership can be a positive influence, both on and off the field.

A safe bet with high expectations

Noel Buck is young, talented, and carries the weight of expectations. His return to the New England Revolution is not just good news for fans but a strategic move by the club to strengthen its midfield. The story of Buck-a local player who grew through the Revolution Academy and now returns more experienced-is exactly the kind of narrative that connects fans, players, and the club.

As the 2025 season draws near, all eyes will be on the young midfielder. Whether he can turn potential into results remains to be seen.