Andrey Santos Breaks Silence on His Chelsea Struggles and Reveals the Priceless Lessons He’s Learning
Andrey Santos’ first full season in Chelsea’s senior squad hasn’t unfolded the way many fans hoped. After arriving with huge excitement in January 2023—and impressing on loan at Nottingham Forest and back in Brazil—the 20-year-old midfielder has found consistent game time hard to come by at Stamford Bridge.
Now, Santos has opened up about his situation, offering a refreshingly honest look at what it’s like for a young talent trying to break into one of the Premier League’s most competitive midfields.
Learning from Two World-Class Midfielders
Santos made it clear he understands why minutes have been limited. Chelsea’s midfield is stacked with elite talent, including Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo—two of the most expensive and highly rated midfielders in Europe, signed for a combined fee of over £200 million.
Instead of feeling frustrated, Santos says the competition motivates him to grow.
Speaking to Hayters TV, he said:
“When the squad is strong, it ends up pulling everyone up. My competition is tough—Enzo and Moi are among the best in the league.”
It’s rare for such a young player to show this level of maturity. While many in his position might push for a move or express frustration, Santos sees the battle for minutes as an opportunity—not a roadblock.
A Midfield Masterclass Money Can’t Buy
Despite concerns from fans about his playing time, Santos insists the learning environment at Chelsea is priceless. Training every day with Fernández and Caicedo, he says, is shaping him into a far stronger, more complete midfielder.
“I believe the learning I am getting from them is essential,” he explained.
“This exchange I am having with them is helping me mature a lot.”
From Enzo Fernández, a World Cup winner at just 22, Santos gains insight into passing rhythm, game vision, and intelligent positioning.
From Moisés Caicedo, one of Europe’s most dominant ball-winners, he studies defensive timing, physicality, and ball recovery.
Few young midfielders in the world have access to such mentorship on a daily basis.
Chelsea’s coaching staff have praised Santos for his professionalism, humility, and hunger to improve—qualities that are highly valued in the club’s long-term project.
Chelsea Still Believe in Santos’ Long-Term Potential
Santos’ lack of minutes does not signal a lack of trust. Chelsea signed him with the belief that he can become a top midfielder in the future. At just 20 years old, he remains a long-term investment—one the club is developing carefully and patiently.
With the Blues competing across multiple competitions, Santos’ chances will come. Injuries, rotation, and fixture congestion will require squad depth, and the midfielder is preparing to step up whenever he is called.
His calm mindset and long-term perspective suggest that when the opportunity arrives, he’ll be ready.
A Young Player with a Clear Vision
For now, Andrey Santos waits—but he waits with purpose. He understands the competition around him, respects the process, and believes every training session with Fernández and Caicedo brings him one step closer to becoming the midfielder Chelsea always envisioned.
Instead of frustration, Santos chooses growth.
Instead of impatience, he chooses maturity.
And instead of looking for the exit, he’s focused on earning his place.
With his attitude and potential, few would be surprised if he eventually forces his way into Enzo Maresca’s plans—and becomes one of Chelsea’s future stars.