As the Premier League season nears its end, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has addressed growing speculation surrounding the future of young Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos.

Speaking to the media, Maresca offered praise but stopped short of confirming the 20-year-old’s role in Chelsea’s plans for next season. “We know Andrey Santos is doing well. But we are just focused on how we finish this season,” Maresca stated, acknowledging the midfielder’s strong performances without committing to a decision.

Santos has impressed during his loan spell at Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, where his energy, composure on the ball and tactical maturity have earned plaudits. His form has not gone unnoticed, and there’s already talk about his potential inclusion in Chelsea’s squad for the FIFA Club World Cup.

But despite the excitement surrounding his development, Maresca made it clear that long-term decisions are on hold until the current campaign wraps up. “When we finish this season, we’re going to start to think about next season,” he added, indicating that the club’s focus remains firmly on ending the season strongly before evaluating individual futures.

Chelsea’s midfield has been heavily reliant on Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo this season, largely due to the prolonged absence of Romeo Lavia, who has battled persistent injuries since his arrival. The midfield department could get even more crowded this summer, with the expected arrival of Portuguese wonderkid Dario Essugo from Sporting CP.

With competition for places heating up and a new era under Maresca beginning to take shape, Santos finds himself at a crossroads. The Club World Cup could offer a platform to stake his claim, but his long-term place at Stamford Bridge remains unclear.