Conor Gallagher's Champions League Eligibility for Tottenham Explained
Conor Gallagher is eligible to play for Tottenham Hotspur in their upcoming Champions League last-16 fixture against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, despite having missed the final two matches of the league phase. This clarification comes as Spurs prepare for their return to European football in the knockout stages.
Cup-Tied Rules and Registration Details
Under current UEFA regulations, players are no longer restricted by traditional cup-tied rules that previously barred them from representing two different clubs in the same Champions League campaign. Gallagher, who featured for Atletico Madrid earlier this season, can now face his former side due to these updated policies.
The England midfielder was included in Tottenham's 25-man List A squad at the start of February, taking advantage of the three changes allowed for the knockout stages. He filled spots vacated by injured players Ben Davies and Rodrigo Bentancur, as well as the departed Brennan Johnson, who was sold to Crystal Palace during the winter transfer window.
Timing of Transfer and Missed Fixtures
Gallagher's January move to Tottenham meant he was not registered in time for the final two league phase matches against Dortmund and Frankfurt. His eligibility was confirmed only after the knockout stage registration window opened and closed, aligning with UEFA's official timelines.
Spurs managed his inclusion by removing Brennan Johnson from the squad list, ensuring compliance with the limit of three squad changes for the remainder of the competition. This strategic adjustment allowed Gallagher to be officially registered for the Champions League knockout rounds.
Squad Decisions and Team News
Alongside Gallagher, Mathys Tel and Radu Dragusin have been included in the Champions League squad, resulting in other fit players being omitted. Recent signing Souza and midfielder Yves Bissouma are among those who will miss out due to restrictions on non-homegrown players.
Injured absences include Wilson Odobert, who is sidelined with an ACL injury after being registered for the knockout stages, while Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison continue their recoveries and have not been registered.
Fans can watch the Atlético Madrid vs Tottenham match on the TNT Sports Prime Video channel, with coverage highlighting this pivotal Champions League clash.
