Four Manchester United Players Included in Champions League Debut Lineup, Real Madrid’s £137 Million New Signing Also Included

The new Champions League season is about to begin, and UEFA has introduced a new initiative this year by following the example of the World Cup: players making their Champions League debuts will wear a “debut patch.” Four Manchester United players will step onto the Champions League stage for the first time, while Real Madrid’s new signing, acquired for £137 million, is also completely new to the competition.

What is the debut patch?

The patch will be placed inside the star-shaped Champions League logo on the sleeve of the jersey. During the World Cup, a similar patch fell off during matches because it was placed incorrectly, and UEFA has learned from that experience this time. After matches, the patches will be collected immediately and handed to partner Topps to be made into trading cards.

Who are included in this debut lineup?

In goal, Aston Villa new signing Suzuki is set to start, and he has never previously played in any European competition. Manchester United defender Yoro has played in the Europa League and Conference League, but the Champions League will be a first for him. Liverpool new signing Jaquez had never played in European competition while at Rennes, and he will make his European debut in Liverpool’s opening Champions League match against Atletico Madrid.

French centre-back Esteve, signed by Leipzig from Burnley for £27.3 million, is also a Champions League newcomer. Manchester United winger Dorgu previously played in a Europa League final, but the Champions League stage will be a first for him. Brighton signing Baleba, who cost £70 million and has played six Europa League matches, may have to wait longer for his Champions League debut — an ankle injury ruled him out of Manchester United’s opening match against Sabah.

Roma midfielder Kone could originally have been taken by Chelsea, but Gasperini insisted on keeping him. He will play an important role in Roma’s first Champions League campaign since the 2018/19 season.