“Still Not Ready? What Do You Mean?” – Enzo Maresca Defends Andrey Santos Following Fan Criticism
Chelsea’s head coach Enzo Maresca has stepped forward to address the growing chorus of criticism aimed at young Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos. After a series of performances that some fans have deemed underwhelming, Maresca made it clear that Santos is not yet fully adapted to the demands of English football — and that this adaptation process naturally takes time.
The 20-year-old Santos arrived at Chelsea amid high expectations, celebrated for his technical skill, vision, and potential to become a key creative force in midfield. However, the transition from Brazil’s style of play to the Premier League’s intense pace, physicality, and tactical complexity is far from straightforward. Maresca highlighted that Santos is still in the crucial phase of learning how to navigate the tactical nuances required at this level, including positioning, pressing triggers, and game tempo management — all vital aspects that don’t develop overnight.
Maresca’s defense also sheds light on the broader challenge young players face when moving from one football culture to another. It’s not just about raw talent; it’s about understanding and thriving within a new system, adjusting to different coaching philosophies, and coping with the pressure and expectations from fans and media alike.
The Chelsea boss urged supporters to be patient and trust the club’s development strategy. He reaffirmed his belief in Santos’ long-term potential, emphasizing that the midfielder’s current struggles are simply part of a natural learning curve rather than a reflection of his future capabilities. According to Maresca, the coaching team remains committed to nurturing Santos, giving him the time and environment to grow into the player they envision.
Key takeaway: Football careers, especially at the highest level, are marathons, not sprints. Maresca’s message is clear — rather than rushing to judgment, fans should support Santos through this period of adjustment, confident that his breakthrough moments are on the horizon.
In essence: Andrey Santos is a work in progress, and with patience, guidance, and continued hard work, he’s expected to become a valuable asset for Chelsea in the seasons to come.