Chelsea’s Deadline-Day signing Buonanotte left out of Champions League squad | OneFootball

Chelsea’s transfer policy has long drawn scrutiny from supporters, often throwing up unusual stories - the latest involving new signing Facundo Buonanotte.

The 20-year-old midfielder arrived on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion late in the window, linking up with Enzo Maresca’s squad until the end of the 2025/26 season.

In his unveiling video, Buonanotte spoke of his excitement at joining the Blues, stressing above all his ambition to make his mark in the Champions League.

Speaking to the club's media team, Buonanotte: "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. I’m sure it will be a positive season."

Buonanotte added: "Of course, I’ll get the opportunity to play in the Champions League for the first time, which will be a great challenge. I’m really looking forward to this season and hopefully I can help the club to achieve its goals."

However, when Chelsea announced their Champions League squad on Wednesday, the Argentine’s name was nowhere to be seen. For now at least, Buonanotte’s dream of making his debut in Europe’s premier competition will have to wait.

Maresca’s side face a daunting set of opponents in the group stage, including Bayern Munich, Benfica, Ajax, Qarabag, Barcelona, Atalanta, Pafos FC and Napoli.