Andrey Santos says he now feels ready for the challenges of top-level football, both at Chelsea and with the Brazilian national team.
At 21, the midfielder has been called up for three of Carlo Ancelotti’s last four squads and admits his experiences abroad have been essential to his development.
_“I think I’ve matured a lot,”_ Andrey said in a press conference relayed by [**Globo Esporte**](https://ge.globo.com/futebol/selecao-brasileira/noticia/2025/11/12/andrey-santos-valoriza-amadurecimento-e-revela-brincadeiras-sobre-o-vasco-na-selecao.ghtml?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter). _“The Andrey who travelled around and toughened up is more prepared and more mature to play his role on the pitch.”_
#### Learning through challenges
The midfielder joined Chelsea in 2023, at just 18, and was quickly sent out on loan to gain experience. _“I think I arrived at Chelsea very young and ended up moving around a bit. That helped me grow and learn,”_ he said.
_“Every player has their own time to adapt… Mine took longer. I went to Nottingham Forest and didn’t play, then to Strasbourg, where I was very happy for two seasons in Ligue 1. Now I’m back at Chelsea.”_
Andrey believes those years away were decisive for his growth, both as a player and as a person. _“That process was fundamental for my life and career,”_ he continued.
_“I learned about different cultures, new languages, and met people who helped me a lot. It’s not easy to leave your country at 18. Going through Nottingham, Strasbourg and now being back at Chelsea is a source of pride. Being here with the national team as well gives me great joy.”_
#### Guidance from senior players
Andrey also spoke about the positive influence of experienced teammates in the Brazil squad. _“I always try to learn as much as I can,”_ he explained. _“It’s great to be around players with a lot of experience”._
During the press conference, he mentioned players like Fabinho, Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Lucas Paquetá and Ederson as references. _“They bring calm to younger ones like me, Estêvão and João Pedro. That exchange is very natural and very good. They went through the same thing, and now they’re helping us, just as someone once helped them.”_
#### Brazilian connection at Chelsea
The midfielder enjoys a strong bond with his fellow Brazilians at Stamford Bridge. _“We’re very happy to be together there,”_ he said. _“Chelsea has a long history with Brazilian players. I’m happy to play alongside Estêvão and João Pedro. We’re always together. In training, off the pitch, at the hotel before games. I think our relationship is perfect and helps all of us perform better.”_
With a growing role under Enzo Maresca and increasing confidence with Brazil, Andrey’s next steps could define a new chapter in his career.
His blend of maturity, resilience and connection with teammates has positioned him as one of Chelsea’s most promising young players – and a strong contender for a World Cup place in 2026.