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Chelsea fans all share their honest thoughts on Andrey Santos after watching his debut vs ES Tunis

Shamanth Jayaram

Wed 25 June 2025 4:53, UK

Andrey Santos made his first-ever appearance for Chelsea in their Club World Cup game against ES Tunis.

The Brazilian joined the Blues from Vasco Da Gama in January 2023, but he was loaned out three times – first to his old club, then to Nottingham Forest and most recently to Strasbourg in France.

The 21-year-old’s spell in Ligue 1 was fantastic, and Chelsea fans across the globe were really excited to see him in their colours.

After a long wait, Enzo Maresca gave Santos his debut in the early hours of Wednesday morning, but the youngster didn’t find it easy.

He came on in the second half, replacing Enzo Fernandez in midfield, but it was clear that he was not yet up to speed with Maresca’s philosophy.

That has led to a few interesting comments from Chelsea supporters.

Chelsea react after Andrey Santos makes his debut

Many Chelsea fans had a go at Maresca for leaving Santos on the bench in their first two Club World Cup games.

Now, after watching his debut against ES Tunis, Blues supporters have realised that he isn’t ready to play regularly just yet.

One Chelsea fan said during the game: “Andrey Santos has made at least four mistakes that almost led to goals. He has played less than 10 minutes.”

Another wrote: “Andrey Santos predictably looking like a 21-year-old making his debut for a big club. Don’t be surprised when you mostly see him playing cup minutes and making late sub appearances in the league.”

“Maresca was completely right about Andrey Santos btw. He is not in tune with the team,” tweeted another.

Another Chelsea fan said: “I am worried about Andrey Santos.”

“Andrey Santos is a million miles behind Caicedo and Enzo. Even Lavia…. Took a really long while for them to get there. And yes, that includes Pochettino’s season as well. Santos might take a while, especially since no Conference League next season,” wrote another.

Andrey Santos had a positive impact despite the criticism

It’s never easy for a 21-year-old to come into a new side and hit the ground running.

Santos’ brilliance on loan last season made many Chelsea fans believe that he could do it, but the youngster needs more time.

The Brazilian clearly struggled when he came on, but he still managed to have an impact.

Santos won a penalty for Chelsea after his shot from outside the box struck a defender’s hand. That decision was overturned by the VAR.

Then, in the final minutes of the game, Santos assisted Tyrique George’s goal to help Chelsea seal a 3-0 win and book their place in the round of 16.

It is clear that Santos is a talented player, but he needs to be eased into the side over the coming months.