Key Takeaways:
- Chelsea replaced Dario Essugo with Facundo Buonanotte in their Champions League squad after Essugo’s injury
- Buonanotte, who joined on loan from Brighton, made his Chelsea debut as a starter in the 2:2 draw with Brentford on Saturday
- UEFA’s new rule allowed the temporary squad change due to Essugo’s long-term absence
Buonanotte Steps Up After Last-Minute Squad Adjustment
Chelsea have made a late adjustment to their Champions League squad ahead of the group stage, prompted by an injury to Dario Essugo, who is now set to miss at least 12 weeks of action. As a result, his name has been withdrawn from Enzo Maresca’s list, and Facundo Buonanotte has been drafted in to fill the vacancy.
New Signing Earns Immediate Opportunity
Facundo Buonanotte, the 20-year-old Argentine who moved to Chelsea on loan from Brighton during the final hours of the transfer window, marked his first start for the Blues in Saturday’s 2:2 draw with Brentford. Following his debut, Enzo Maresca offered praise for Buonanotte’s performance.
🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Facundo Buonanotte has been included in Chelsea’s Champions League squad replacing the injured Dario Essugo.
UEFA rules allow for the replacement of a long-term injury. pic.twitter.com/KPrdOSsiVD
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) September 16, 2025
Emotional Rollercoaster for Buonanotte
Buonanotte expressed his delight at joining Chelsea and having the chance to feature in the Champions League during his inaugural statement post-transfer. However, he soon faced disappointment upon learning he was not included in Maresca’s initial squad for the competition.
That situation has now taken a turn thanks to UEFA’s recent regulation, which provides clubs with the option to make a “temporary” substitution in the event of a long-term injury or illness suffered by an outfield player. This rule, allowing squad adjustments up to the sixth round of the tournament in December, has enabled Buonanotte to realise his ambition of playing in European football’s elite competition.
| Outgoing Player | Incoming Player | Reason for Change | Eligibility Rule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dario Essugo | Facundo Buonanotte | Injury (out for at least 12 weeks) | UEFA temporary replacement for long-term injury (up to group stage round 6) |
