UEFA Rule Prevents Liverpool from Naming Wataru Endo Replacement in Champions League Squad

By HITC Staff | Published: February 2026

Liverpool FC faces a setback in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League after midfielder Wataru Endo suffered a long-term injury, ruling him out for the remainder of the league phase. A strict UEFA squad registration rule has prevented the club from naming a direct replacement, leaving their List A squad at 24 players.[1][2]

Under UEFA's regulations for the Champions League league phase, clubs submit a primary List A of up to 25 players, including quotas for locally trained players (minimum eight, with no more than four association-trained). List B allows unlimited under-22 players eligible via club training criteria, but must be submitted 24 hours before matches.[1][3]

While a new UEFA rule introduced for the 2025/26 season permits one temporary replacement for an outfield player with long-term injury or illness during the league phase (up to matchday 6), Liverpool could not utilize it for Endo's spot. The rule aims to protect squad depth amid fixture congestion but has specific conditions not met in this case.[2]

Squad changes are allowed post-league phase for knockout rounds, with clubs registering up to three new players by 24:00 CET on February 5, 2026, without exceeding the 25-player List A limit or locally trained quotas. However, this deadline has passed without Endo’s replacement added, as Liverpool prioritizes other January signings.[1][3][6][7]

Endo, a key defensive midfielder, featured prominently before his injury. Manager Arne Slot expressed frustration, noting the rule's rigidity disadvantages teams like Liverpool, who filled all 25 List A spots initially. Fans worry about midfield depth against tough opponents like Arsenal or Bayern Munich in potential knockout ties.[4]

UEFA cites squad harmony and fairness, but critics argue for more flexibility given the expanded format's demands. Liverpool must now rely on existing options like Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister. Full squad lists are confirmed on UEFA.com.[3]

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