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Maresca Must Make Decision Soon or Risk Losing Huge Talent

Andrey Santos
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The 20-year-old Brazilian, […] has yet to feature in the tournament despite Chelsea’s 3-1 defeat to Flamengo.

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Andrey Santos’ lack of minutes at the FIFA Club World Cup has left Chelsea fans frustrated and raised serious doubts about the midfielder’s future at Stamford Bridge. The 20-year-old Brazilian, fresh from a successful loan spell at Strasbourg, has yet to feature in the tournament despite Chelsea’s 3-1 defeat to Flamengo.

Santos was overlooked even as Chelsea pushed for an equaliser late in the game, a move that puzzled many supporters who expected him to be given a chance on a stage designed for squad rotation and opportunity.

Chelsea’s Midfield Congestion Complicates Path for Santos

Enzo Maresca currently faces a midfield logjam. Moises Caicedo remains a key figure, and Enzo Fernandez has shown signs of improved output under the Italian manager. The recent signing of Dario Essugo, who brings added versatility, further complicates the picture.

This depth makes it difficult to see where Santos fits in unless he is given a defined role or is loaned out again. His ability to play as a deep midfielder or as a more advanced No.10 could give him an edge, but only if he is trusted with actual playing time.

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Bayern and Others Monitoring Situation Closely

Interest in Santos is growing. Bayern Munich are understood to be among several European clubs keeping tabs on his situation. Should Chelsea decide against integrating him into the squad for the 2025-26 season, there will be no shortage of suitors for the Brazil international.

Santos has made it clear that he wants to play for Chelsea, but his ambitions may be tested if he continues to remain on the sidelines during a tournament like the Club World Cup, where fringe players usually have an opportunity to shine.

Final Group Game Offers a Crucial Window

Chelsea face Esperance in their final group stage match this week. For Maresca, this could be the perfect chance to assess Santos in a competitive environment. Failure to use the midfielder again may accelerate talks around his departure, whether permanent or on loan.

If Chelsea are serious about Santos’ development, the club must act now. Allowing such a highly rated prospect to stagnate on the bench would be a costly oversight in a summer where Chelsea are already under scrutiny for their big-money recruitment strategy.

A Defining Decision Looms for Maresca and Chelsea

Ultimately, the decision on Santos’ future cannot be delayed much longer. With transfer interest building and the player himself eager to make a mark, Chelsea must either commit to his development within the first team or sanction a move that gives him the game time he clearly deserves. The next few weeks will be critical in determining the trajectory of one of the club’s most talented young players.

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