Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos spoke to the Brazilian press after the 1-1 draw against Manchester City, describing the performance as a “display of character” and highlighting his own role in a changed tactical setup at the Etihad Stadium.
Speaking to Globo Esporte after the final whistle, Andrey focused on both the result and his personal display. Introduced in the second half, the Brazilian felt it was one of his strongest outings since joining Chelsea.
“It’s a double happiness, because of the result we achieved and also my performance,” he said. “It was one of the best games I’ve had here at Chelsea. As I always say, I’m available to play in any position that helps the team the most.”
A deeper role against City
Andrey explained that his responsibilities changed significantly once he came on, especially given City’s dominance in possession.
“Today I played deeper, with more defensive duties,” he noted. “That’s because City are a team that keep the ball a lot in attack. I’m happy I did well in that role.”
Chelsea had struggled in the first half and went behind before the break. However, the Brazilian midfielder stressed that the team’s reaction after the interval made the difference.
Great character on McFarlane’s debut
For Andrey, the draw carried extra meaning given the context of the match. It was Chelsea’s first game following the departure of Enzo Maresca, with Calum McFarlane stepping in as interim head coach.
“It was a display of great character from our team,” Andrey said. “Everyone deserves congratulations. It’s a result that gives us momentum to start the new year in the right way.”
He also underlined how difficult the task was at the Etihad. “It’s not easy to come to a place like this, go behind on the scoreboard and not give up until the last play. It was a fair result.”
Focus on the league target
The equaliser, scored by Enzo Fernández, secured a point that keeps Chelsea in fifth place, still in contention for the Champions League places. Andrey made it clear that the squad’s ambitions remain unchanged.
“What I can guarantee is that, regardless of the coach, this squad will always give everything on the pitch,” he said. “We will fight to put Chelsea at the top of the table. We know our potential.”
With City, managed by Pep Guardiola, staying near the summit alongside Arsenal and Aston Villa, Andrey’s comments reflect a Chelsea side trying to reassert itself through attitude and adaptability.
The midfielder’s words suggest that, amid change off the pitch, his role within the team continues to grow.