From loans in Europe to the national team: Andrey Santos’ turnaround at Chelsea

Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos celebrates a starting role for Brazil after overcoming a difficult European journey.

A rocky start in Europe

At just 23, Andrey Santos is living a career highlight, starting for Brazil against Bolivia in World Cup qualifiers. But his journey in Europe has not been easy.

Discovered by Vasco da Gama, Santos moved to Chelsea in 2023 and quickly faced challenges. The intensity of training and limited playing time left him questioning his own abilities. In his own words, he returned home thinking he “no longer knew how to play football.”

Loan spells and regained confidence

Struggling to find minutes, Santos went on several loans: a brief return to Vasco, a frustrating period at Nottingham Forest, and then a move to Strasbourg in France.

It was in French football that he rebuilt his confidence. Over 39 matches, Santos scored 10 goals and added three assists, becoming a pivotal player for Strasbourg and catching Chelsea’s attention once again.

Return to Chelsea and national team breakthrough

His return to Chelsea was marked by success, participating in the Club World Cup campaign that brought the London club the title. The renewed form and maturity earned him consecutive call-ups to Brazil’s national team, culminating in a starting role against Bolivia.

Santos reflects on his journey positively, saying leaving Brazil early was a challenge but an invaluable learning experience. “You don’t say no to Chelsea,” he emphasizes, acknowledging both the professional and personal growth the move enabled.
Looking ahead