Buonanotte takes the spot of Portuguese-Angolan star Dario Essugo in Chelsea’s UCL squad

Chelsea have confirmed the addition of Facundo Buonanotte to their UEFA Champions League squad following a major injury setback to young midfielder Dário Essugo.

The announcement came on Tuesday afternoon, just 24 hours before the Blues open their league-phase campaign away to Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.

Essugo, who was born in Portugal to Angolan parents, is expected to miss at least 12 weeks after sustaining a thigh injury while on international duty.

The 20-year-old had been one of manager Enzo Maresca’s trusted young options but will now be unavailable for much of the autumn fixture list.

Chelsea’s decision to draft in Buonanotte was made under Article 31.14 C of UEFA’s Champions League regulations, which were adjusted last week to allow injury replacements.

“Buonanotte will now replace Essugo in the Chelsea squad,” the club confirmed in a statement. “The Blues begin the league phase of our Champions League campaign tomorrow evening, as we take on Bayern Munich at Allianz Arena.”

The 19-year-old Buonanotte spoke earlier this season about his dream of playing in Europe’s premier competition.

“It’s a great first 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,” he said.

“Of course, I’ll get the opportunity to play in the Champions League for the first time, which will be a great challenge.”

Buonanotte made his Chelsea debut in the 2-2 Premier League draw with Brentford last Saturday and could feature against Bayern in what is already shaping up to be Maresca’s biggest test since taking charge.