Maresca shuts down Santos exit chatter – the kid’s staying at Chelsea

By: Akinde S. Oluwaseun

It was a typical London drizzle when Enzo Maresca took to the press conference, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Andrey’s not going anywhere,” he said, almost as if he’d been waiting for someone to ask. The young midfielder, who’s been slipping in and out of the midfield like a ghost, has become the sort of player you can’t plan a game without.

Maresca went on, a little louder now, “He can slot into the Enzo Fernandez role, he can cover Moisés Caicedo – no problem.” The manager’s tone was half‑coach, half‑friend, the kind of mix you hear when a boss is genuinely pleased. He didn’t hide his excitement: “I’m very happy with Andrey, really happy he’s staying.”

Chelsea are gearing up for a showdown with West Ham at the London Stadium – both sides desperate for that first win of the 2025/26 campaign after a dull start. Chelsea’s last 29 meetings with the Hammers tilt heavily in blue’s favour, 16 wins to 8 for West Ham and five draws. Still, the Hammers have snagged four wins in their last eight home games against the Blues, so the match could get spicy.

All eyes will be on Santos, the versatile kid who just got the green light to stay and fight. If he can keep pulling double‑duty in midfield, Chelsea might finally break their early‑season slump.