UEFA introduces debut patches for Champions League players this season

UEFA will launch a new initiative for the 2026-27 men’s Champions League season, providing sleeve patches for players making their tournament debut. Beginning with the competition's kickoff on September 8, the patches will feature the word “debut” inside the tournament's starball logo. The program applies to any player entering the pitch, meaning substitutes will receive the patch upon their first appearance. Once the match concludes, the patches will be removed and authenticated by Topps, a Fanatics-owned company, to be used for signed trading cards. This move follows similar programs used in various other sports, including the MLB, NBA, and the World Cup. The Women’s Champions League is expected to adopt the initiative starting in the 2027-28 season. UEFA and Fanatics also plan to extend their partnership through 2033.

• 2:40 PMYahoo Sports — Champions League debutants will get special patch – report