16-year-old Patrick Budescu signs with Sassuolo, marking a significant step in his football career

At just 16 years old, Patrick Budescu has taken a monumental step in his football journey by signing with Sassuolo, a club in Italy's Serie A. This young defender, who honed his skills at the renowned Hagi Academy, is set to begin his professional career in Italy, leaving Romania behind.

Patrick's ascent began under the guidance of Gică Hagi, who was the coach at Farul when he included Budescu in the senior team for the first time during a friendly match against Cerno More Varna in the summer of 2024. Although the team lost that match 0-1, Budescu made his debut in the 60th minute, coming on for Gabriel Dănuleasă. This experience with the senior team has left a lasting impression on the young player, who expressed his joy at being alongside senior players and his eagerness to have successful training sessions.

After demonstrating his potential at the junior level, Budescu's performances played a crucial role in his selection for the senior squad. He has been called up for further training at the start of 2025, signaling that Sassuolo sees a bright future for him. As he joins the Sassuolo Primavera, the youth team currently facing challenges with only four points after four matches this season, Budescu is ready to embrace the hardships and hopes to adapt quickly.

Despite sharing a surname with the notable Constantin Budescu, Patrick is not related to him. With a promising future ahead, the football world will be watching closely as this young talent embarks on his journey in Italy.