Should The Revs Try To Bring Back Adam Buksa?
Our staff weighs in.
Adam Buksa could leave RC Lens this summer, according to L'Equipe. The Polish striker joined the French club in June 2022 but has only played 83 minutes in seven games due to injury. He could soon depart, though it’s unclear if it would be a loan or permanent transfer.
Should the Revs be interested in adding Buksa? Our staff weighs in.
Seth: Yes
The Revs have a lot of striker options, but none quite like Buksa. The 6’4 striker is a prototypical No. 9 who can score in a variety of ways. He’s notably dangerous in the air, which is a current weakness for the Revolution, a team that likes to cross.
Buksa has dealt with injuries since joining RC Lens last summer, but I’m not overly worried about that. The main reason why I would be against adding Buksa is because the Revs have other needs. They really need a winger to replace Dylan Borrero, who is expected to miss 9-12 months. Backline depth is another area of concern.
That said, I’m all for adding Buksa because he’s a known commodity who is eager to regain his form. In my mind, a 6-month loan would benefit both parties. The championship window is currently open for the Revs and bringing in Buksa could get them closer to winning the elusive MLS Cup.
Josh - Absolutely not
It’s no secret that one of the Revolution’s targets this summer has to be a target striker. Yet, it won’t be Adam Buksa.
First, Lens had a good season after finishing second and only four points behind champions PSG. With their second-place finish, they will play in UEFA Champions League. Considering Lens' good form and UCL qualification, I highly doubt Adam Buksa would pass on the opportunity he has at Lens.
Secondly, a move away from a top-five league could impact his position with the Polish National Team. Yes, Buksa did have appearances with Poland during his time with the Revs, but considering the now 26-year-old has “failed” at an elite level of competition and younger talents have strived across the globe, a move for Buksa could spell the end to his international career.
Let’s now consider the Revolution’s perspective. Is it worth it? Adam has dealt with injuries ever since leaving New England. Considering the number of injuries the club has dealt with, especially this season, Buksa’s return could bring headaches to the medical staff.
Secondly, the club has to put in the work to make the roster space for Buksa. They likely have to buy out either Gustavo Bou or Giacomo Vrioni. I would look at either coming to a mutual termination with Bou or using the buyout IF I was serious about bringing Buksa back.
If Buksa were to return with Giacomo Vrioni on the roster, things could get rocky. From Vrioni’s perspective, seeing the guy I was supposed to come in and replace return into the fold would be a blow. While some progress has been made with Vrioni over the past year, all of it could disappear if Buksa were to return.
Yes, the Revs 1000% need a target striker, but bringing Adam Buksa back would be a risk that could handcuff the Revolution for years. If I’m Bruce, I am exploring other options.
Yes, they should try bring him back. A chunk of Josh's comments isn't relevant to the Rev's perspective on bring him back (ie: Buska's standing on his national team) and I don't care if Vrioni feel spressure because of it. We need a striker/score because Vrioni, Altidore, and Bou aren't scoring when they are available for selection. If Vrioni needs more time to get comfortable he can always play in Revs II.