Andrey Santos – Foto: X.com/ Chelsea
Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos scored his first goal for Chelsea on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in Wolverhampton, England. He opened the scoring in the fifth minute against Wolverhampton in the round of 16 of the English League Cup, securing a 4-3 victory for the Blues. The play originated from a defensive error by the hosts, with Andrey finishing left-footed from the edge of the box. Head coach Enzo Maresca’s contribution was key, granting freedom for the player to act as a surprise attacking element.
Andrey Santos, 21, joined Chelsea’s first team in the 2024/25 season after loans to Vasco and Strasbourg. He has played in 11 of the Blues’ 14 matches so far. The goal marked a personal milestone, especially after a streak without decisive finishes. The Brazilian shared credit with the coach, emphasizing the strategy’s impact.
The match at Molineux Stadium showcased Chelsea’s early efficiency, building a three-goal lead in the first half. Tyrique George extended the advantage in the 15th minute, and Estêvão Willian, another Brazilian, scored the third in the 41st with a chip over goalkeeper José Sá. Andrey assisted on the third goal, stealing the ball and passing to his teammate.
The 13th Brazilian player to score for Chelsea. 🇧🇷
Read more on our Brazilian Blues. ⬇️
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) October 30, 2025
Goal moment and applied tactic
Wolverhampton’s defensive mistake allowed Jamie Gittens to regain possession and find Andrey Santos. The Brazilian controlled the ball and shot low into the left corner, leaving no chance for the goalkeeper. This action reflects the team’s tactical preparation, focusing on quick transitions.
Enzo Maresca implemented a system that values midfielders’ versatility, permitting surprise advances. Andrey compared the style to his time at Strasbourg, where he scored 11 goals last season. The granted freedom boosted his offensive involvement, with two shots on target in the game.
Brazilian highlights in the clash
Estêvão Willian solidified his adaptation to English football with the chipped goal, assisted by Andrey. The 18-year-old, signed from Palmeiras, has three goals in 13 Chelsea appearances. His technical finish in the 41st minute sealed the visitors’ initial dominance.
Tyrique George, 19, scored the second goal on a counter-attack, exploiting spaces left by the opponent. The three Brazilians in attack contributed to 75% of the first-half goals. This blend of youth and talent reinforced Maresca’s squad rotation strategy.
Wolverhampton reacted in the second half, with goals from Tolu Arokodare in the 47th minute and David Moller Wolfe in the 73rd. Jamie Gittens, 21, made it 4-2 in the 89th, but Filip Krejci reduced the deficit in stoppage time. Despite late pressure, Chelsea advanced to the quarterfinals.
Andrey’s evolution at Chelsea
Andrey Santos joined the club in 2023 for 18 million pounds from Vasco. Loaned to Strasbourg last season, he played 34 matches and contributed to 15 goals. Back at the Blues, he has 15 appearances across competitions, including the Premier League and Champions League.
Coach Maresca positions him as an attacking midfielder, similar to Enzo Fernández, prioritizing forward runs over pure defensive duties. Andrey stressed daily training to address weaknesses and improve game understanding. His performance included four tackles and three ball recoveries against Wolves.
The victory exposed Chelsea’s defensive inconsistencies, conceding three goals after the break. Still, the mixed lineup tested options for a packed schedule, with Premier League and other cup games ahead. Andrey expressed optimism about the continuation, citing the group’s high level.
Preparation for the next challenge
Chelsea sits ninth in the Premier League with 14 points from nine rounds. On Saturday, November 1, they face Tottenham away at 2:30 PM (Brasília time). Maresca plans adjustments to balance defense and attack.
Andrey Santos expects more minutes in the league, where the team seeks recovery after mixed results. Rotating young players like him and Estêvão aims to preserve key starters for decisive fixtures. The focus remains on consistency throughout the long season.
- Andrey Santos’ key stats in the match: 1 goal, 1 assist, 7/8 duels won.
- Brazilian contributions: 3 goals in Chelsea’s 4 scored.
- Strasbourg record: 11 goals and 4 assists in 34 games.
The Tottenham clash will test the ability to maintain leads in balanced games. Andrey highlighted the need to take it step by step in the Premier League, known for its competitiveness. The squad relies on reinforcements for multiple fronts, including the League Cup, where the Blues await the quarterfinal draw.
