Côme’s debut in the Champions League could turn into an unexpected challenge, not on the pitch but in the UEFA registration rules. The club may have to field a significantly smaller squad than usual, with only 16 to 17 players eligible for matchday lists. This limitation stems from the UEFA Article 31, which allows clubs to register no more than 17 non-locally trained players in their squad list. The remaining spots must be filled by athletes developed within the same country.
This regulation poses a direct threat to Côme’s ambitions, especially as their recruitment strategy under manager Cesc Fàbregas has heavily favored international talent. Speaking to the press in late July, the Spanish coach highlighted the club’s structural shortfall: « The UEFA roster limits force us into a tight corner. Without a fully operational youth academy meeting UEFA standards, we’ll struggle to field a full squad in Europe. Developing homegrown players is a long-term investment—one that can’t be rushed in just a couple of years. »
The irony isn’t lost on observers. Despite boasting the youngest average squad age in Serie A—just 26 years—Côme lacks the infrastructure to comply with UEFA’s local-player quotas. With the summer transfer window still open, the club has made five signings, yet only one is Italian: striker Mattia Liberali, acquired from Catanzaro for €6 million. Fàbregas and his technical staff are now rethinking their approach to prioritize locally developed talent moving forward.
Can youth breakthroughs save the season?
Amid these constraints, a potential lifeline emerges from within: Côme’s rising young stars. Several academy talents have already caught the eye of scouts, including midfielder Riccardo Cassano, who impressed during U17 performances and earned bench minutes in Serie A last season. If these young players can step up, they may not only bolster the squad but also help the club navigate UEFA’s roster rules without sacrificing competitive edge.
