Ligue des champions: Côme faces squad limits due to UEFA rules

UEFA regulations limit Côme’s Champions League squad

AC Côme faces an unexpected challenge in its debut UEFA Champions League campaign: a squad size restriction imposed by UEFA regulations. The club may be forced to field only 16 to 17 players on matchday, despite having a full roster at its disposal. This limitation stems from UEFA’s Article 31, which restricts non-locally trained players to 17 spots on the match sheet, with the remaining eight reserved for locally developed talent.

The situation presents a dilemma for head coach Cesc Fàbregas, whose recruitment strategy has historically favored international signings. « The UEFA regulations force us to adapt our approach, but we’re committed to building a sustainable future,» Fàbregas explained during a late July press conference. « Without a fully operational academy, we’re constrained by these rules. We need time to develop homegrown players—something that can’t be achieved in just a few seasons.»

The academy gap and recruitment dilemma

AC Côme’s youth setup, though producing some promising talents, lacks the infrastructure to meet UEFA’s local player requirements. The club currently boasts the youngest average squad age in Serie A (26 years), yet finds itself at a disadvantage due to its underdeveloped academy system. Fàbregas emphasized the long-term solution: « We must invest in our youth now to comply with regulations and strengthen our squad organically.»

This summer, the club made five signings, but only one—Italian striker Mattia Liberali from Catanzaro for €6 million—fits the local player quota. The remaining recruits are non-Italians, leaving the club scrambling to adjust its roster before the Champions League qualifiers.

A youthful hope emerges

Despite these hurdles, AC Côme’s academy has produced standout talents like midfielder Riccardo Cassano, who impressed during pre-season and youth league matches. Cassano, a product of the club’s U17 system, has already featured in Serie A fixtures and is being scouted by top European clubs. « Young players like Cassano give us hope,» Fàbregas noted. « They represent the future of this club and could help us navigate these restrictions.»