Chelsea player out for eight games, manager's reputation takes a hit due to sidelining
Chelsea's Champions League Squad: A Surprise Exclusion for Facundo Buonanotte
In a surprising turn of events, Argentine international Facundo Buonanotte has been left out of Chelsea's 23-man UEFA Champions League squad, despite his recent deadline-day switch to the London club. Buonanotte, a 20-year-old winger, joined Chelsea on a temporary basis from Brighton and Hove Albion.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler had expressed his belief that the move would provide Buonanotte with a great opportunity to play regular Premier League and Champions League football. However, the final decision regarding Buonanotte's inclusion in the Champions League squad lies with first-team boss Enzo Maresca.
Buonanotte's dream of playing European football has only been 72 hours long at Chelsea due to his current sidelined status. He will miss at least eight league stage fixtures due to this exclusion. However, the young winger remains hopeful and is aiming to impress in the Premier League and cup competitions to earn his spot in the UEFA Champions League squad.
Buonanotte's interview was conducted with Chelsea's official club website, where he expressed his excitement to play for Chelsea and the opportunity to play European football. He stated his desire to help Chelsea achieve its goals this season.
Notably, Buonanotte is not the only new face in Chelsea's squad this summer. He is one of ten new players signed by Enzo Maresca for the club. Liam Delap, Dario Essugo, Estevao, Jamie Gittens, Jorrel Hato, and Joao Pedro are among the other new additions to Chelsea's Champions League squad.
Interestingly, Cole Palmer was also left out by Chelsea for their UEFA Conference League League Phase matches last season, but was later re-added once they reached the knockout rounds. This leaves Buonanotte's chances of playing UEFA Champions League football this season uncertain and dependent on his performance in other competitions.
Buonanotte's time at Chelsea has already been sidelined, with no further details provided about the reason. His current situation at the club has raised questions about Hurzeler's decision to send him on loan now, given Chelsea's decision to omit him from their Champions League squad.
Despite the setback, Buonanotte remains optimistic and is focused on making the most of his time at Chelsea. His journey in the Premier League and European football is just beginning, and only time will tell if he will get the opportunity to play in the Champions League this season.
