UEFA has announced a late change to its squad registration rules for European competitions, permitting clubs to make temporary replacements during the group stage. The amendment could provide a lifeline for several high-profile players who were initially left out of their clubs’ Champions League squads.
This season features a record six English teams in the tournament (Chelsea, Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham). Their squad lists were submitted last week and immediately drew attention for some unexpected omissions.
Liverpool’s new manager Arne Slot left out Federico Chiesa, Chelsea omitted recent signing Facundo Buonanotte, while Tottenham’s £30 million forward Mathys Tel was also excluded.
Previously, those players would have had to wait until the knockout rounds for a chance to feature. Under the new rule, however, clubs may register one outfield replacement if a listed player suffers a long-term injury or illness before the sixth match day. The change applies across the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League, with squads still capped at 25 players and subject to homegrown quotas.
Injury Concerns and Challenges
The amendment offers managers some much-needed flexibility at a time when fixture congestion and injuries are a growing concern.
Tottenham have left six players out of their Champions League group, including Tel, midfielder Yves Bissouma and new recruit Kota Takai, who is recovering from a foot injury. James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and Radu Dragusin are also unavailable.
Chelsea face a similar situation, having registered Levi Colwill despite the defender beginning a lengthy recovery from an ACL injury. The new rule could open the door for Buonanotte to be called up, although it remains to be clarified how the replacement process interacts with the homegrown player requirements.
UEFA’s amendment is intended to prevent squads from being unfairly weakened and to reduce the physical strain on players. While broader regulations remain unchanged, the option to make a temporary replacement could prove decisive for clubs aiming to maintain momentum during the group stage.
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