Chelsea star Andrey Santos has named the teammate he really enjoys playing with at Stamford Bridge.
After a successful time on loan with Strasbourg, Andrey Santos, 21, has forced his way into the first-team squad at Chelsea for the 2025-26 campaign.
So far this season, the Brazilian midfielder has had some decent minutes without hitting top gear.
Competition Appearances Starts Goals Assists Minutes played
Premier League 7 2 0 0 221
Champions League 2 0 0 1 67
Carabao Cup 2 2 1 1 180
Santos was excellent in midweek against Wolverhampton Wanderers, scoring his first Chelsea goal to help his side reach the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. Hopefully, it can be a catalyst for him to kick on and shine for Enzo Maresca’s team.
Of course, his biggest issue is that he’s gone from starting every match at Strasbourg to now competing with the likes of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez for minutes.
Andrey Santos playing for Chelsea agianst Bayer Leverkusen in a pre-season friendly.
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Andrey Santos gives Estevao Willian huge praise
Chelsea’s Santos has explained that he’s delighted to play alongside Estevao Willian, who’s his teammate at both club and international level.
When discussing Chelsea teammate Estevao, Santos said via Chelsea’s official website: “Joao Pedro and I have helped him because he arrived here two months ago in a new country, a new culture and a completely new language. So it’s a process for him.
“He has done really well – he’s amazing. In Brazil, he did amazing, and even for the national team, and now for Chelsea. I’m so happy to play with him.”
Estevao, 18, has been outstanding so far during his debut season with Chelsea, winning over the fanbase with his genius as a footballer.
The fearless teenager has dazzled on the right wing, where he loves to drift inside on his favoured left foot. He’s got the versatility to operate in a number 10 role, too.
It was quite a statement when Estevao admitted he wants to become the world’s best player following his move to Stamford Bridge. We’ll have to wait and see if he can achieve such a lofty ambition, but it does feel like Chelsea have managed to sign a future superstar.
Andrey Santos and Estevao Willian before Chelsea's Premier League match against Fulham.
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Estevao Willian should start vs Tottenham
On Saturday, Chelsea travel to Tottenham in a crucial Premier League fixture.
After just two wins in their previous six league matches, Maresca’s side desperately need the three points. In addition, they’ll want the bragging rights from the fierce rivalry against Spurs.
Estevao has dazzled every single time he’s been on the pitch for the Blues, but he’s started just four league games this season because the head coach wants to integrate the youngster at a sensible pace.
At first, we understand the cautious approach with the Brazilian wonderkid, giving him time to settle in a new country. However, he’s proven he’s the type of footballer that can make the difference, so it feels like a no-brainer for him to start away at Spurs, especially when the creativity of Cole Palmer is missing.