An update in recent seasons to UEFA’s rules on being cup-tied in the Champions League means that Enzo Fernandez will be able to feature for Chelsea in the competition this season.
However, Graham Potter will have a decision to make over which of his new signings do make the European squad.
He will only be allowed to name three new of the January additions into the squad, and even then he will have to unregister one of the previous members of the team.
The European crown, which the Blues have won twice in the past, is the club’s final chance of silverware this season, following exits in both domestic cup competitions at the hands of Manchester City.
A revival of form under Potter saw them finish top of the group with AC Milan and RB Salzburg, after losing their opener against Dinamo Zagreb under Thomas Tuchel.
The pair of wins over the Serie A champions provided arguably the highlight so far of what has been a particularly bleak season for the Blues.
Can Enzo Fernandez play in the Champions League for Chelsea?
They have not been blessed with an easy tie however. They will face Jude Bellingham and Borussia Dortmund in the Round of 16 next month.
While it is so far uncertain who Potter will select for the squad, Fernandez will be available despite already featuring in the competition for Benfica.
The Portuguese outfit remain in the tournament, and have an intriguing tie to come against Club Brugge.
Fernandez in particular has enjoyed a strong season in Europe so far, scoring twice in the nine matches Benfica have had to play to get to this stage.
Despite having to select between Mykhailo Mudryk, Joao Felix, Noni Madueke and Benoit Badiashile for those spots, club-record addition Fernandez will surely be one of those trusted to get the job done when the Blues travel to Germany in less than two weeks’ time.
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