Santos has proven his passing abilities, but the new Chelsea manager will have to grant approval

Andrey Santos faces an uncertain future at Chelsea, with decisions looming in the coming weeks that may shape his path ahead.

As he gears up for preseason under the watchful eye of new manager Enzo Maresca, the ultimate verdict on his fate lies not solely with him but also with the club’s sporting directors. Maresca’s preference for possession-based football adds layer of scrutiny to Santos’ abilities on the ball.

While some pundits perceive Santos as lacking fluidity in his play, contrasting with the smoother style of Romeo Lavia, his recent stint in Ligue 1 showcased unexpected strengths in passing from deep midfield, challenging preconceptions about his game.

However, Santos’ destiny remains intertwined with various factors beyond his control. The possibility of remaining on loan at Strasbourg is uncertain, and much will hinge on Maresca’s assessment during preseason. Should Conor Gallagher depart, Santos could find himself thrust into a more prominent role, though the midfield landscape remains fluid.

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With Lesley Ugochukwu offering rotation options, the club faces decisions on whether to loan out Santos or seek an experienced replacement to bolster the midfield ranks economically. The coming weeks promise intrigue, with Santos acutely aware that Gallagher’s future may significantly influence his path forward. It’s a situation rife with uncertainty and anticipation.