Facundo Buonanotte's First Interview as Chelsea Player Goes Viral After Champions League Snub

Facundo Buonanotte's first interview as a Chelsea player is going viral after the Argentine was left out of Chelsea’s 23-man squad for the Champions League league phase.

With hours remaining of the window, Chelsea swooped to hijack Leeds United's move for Buonanotte.

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder, who notched six goals and three assists for Leicester last season as they suffered Premier League relegation, has joined Enzo Maresca's side on a season-long loan from Brighton.

Shortly after Chelsea spent £2 million on his temporary services, Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler was asked why the player is heading out on loan again.

"This is a great opportunity for Facundo to play regular Premier League and Champions League football this season and further his development," he said. "Facundo has great potential."

Buonanotte also mentioned the chance to play European football in his first interview as a Chelsea player.

"It’s a great step in my career," he said. "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."

Two days later and the Argentine was left out of Chelsea's 23-man squad for the opening stages of this season's Champions League, while summer signings Liam Delap, Dario Essugo, Estevao, Jamie Gittens, Jorrel Hato and Joao Pedro were all included.

Buonanotte still has a chance to feature in this season's competition. Ahead of the knockout stage, clubs that make it through the league phase can register a maximum of three new players by 23:00 on February 5, 2025.

Chelsea’s Champions League squad in full

Goalkeepers: Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen

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

Midfielders: Enzo Fernandez, Cole Palmer, Jamie Gittens, Dario Essugo, Andrey Santos, Moises Caicedo

Forwards: Pedro Neto, Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Marc Guiu, Estevao, Alejandro Garnacho