Chelsea’s new signing, Facundo Buonanotte, has attracted attention for unexpected reasons following his first interview as a Blues player and his subsequent omission from the club’s Champions League squad.

The 20-year-old midfielder joined Chelsea on loan from Brighton on deadline day. He expressed enthusiasm about playing in Europe’s premier club competition, only to be left out of the 23-man squad.

Instead, Chelsea included summer signings Liam Delap, Estevão, Jorrel Hato, João Pedro, Dario Essugo, and Jamie Gittens.

Buonanotte, who scored six goals and contributed three assists for Leicester City last season despite their relegation, was secured for a £2 million loan fee. Chelsea hijacked a deal that had been close to completion with Leeds United.

Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler explained the reasoning behind the loan move, saying, “This is a great opportunity for Facundo to play regular Premier League and Champions League football this season and further his development. Facundo has great potential.”

In his first interview as a Chelsea player, Buonanotte stated, “It’s a great step in my career. I’m really happy to be here and ready to offer as much as I can to the team and the staff. Of course, I’ll get the opportunity to play in the Champions League for the first time, which will be a great challenge.”

Two days later, UEFA confirmed Chelsea’s squad for the group stage of the competition, with Buonanotte omitted. Other summer recruits including Liam Delap, Dario Essugo, Estevão, Jamie Gittens, Jorrel Hato, and João Pedro made the cut.

Under UEFA regulations, Chelsea can still register three new players for the knockout stages, should the club progress, with a deadline of 23:00 on 5 February 2026. Until then, Buonanotte is expected to focus on his contributions in the Premier League.

Chelsea’s confirmed Champions League squad for the group stage is as follows:

Goalkeepers: Robert Sánchez, Filip Jørgensen

Defenders: Marc Cucurella, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoît Badiashile, Levi Colwill, Jorrel Hato, Trevoh Chalobah, Reece James, Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana

Midfielders: Enzo Fernández, Cole Palmer, Jamie Gittens, Dario Essugo, Andrey Santos, Moisés Caicedo

Forwards: Pedro Neto, Liam Delap, João Pedro, Marc Guiu, Estevão, Alejandro Garnacho