Overview
- The Executive Committee approved the change on September 12 in Albania for immediate use in the 2025–26 season.
- Clubs may make a one-time, temporary replacement of an outfield player with a long-term injury or illness during the league phase through matchday six.
- Previously, roster changes were only permitted after the league phase, limiting flexibility during early rounds.
- UEFA linked the move to the congested calendar under the new format, with prior absences like Dani Carvajal and Rodri cited as examples.
- Reporting indicates Chelsea could be an early applicant after Liam Delap’s hamstring tendon injury estimated at 10–12 weeks, as the competition begins September 16 with fixtures such as Bayern Munich vs. Chelsea and Liverpool vs. Atlético available on Disney+.