Andrey Santos has declared Manchester United a 'step up' from Chelsea following his £48 million move to Old Trafford, as he aims to fill the void left by Casemiro. The Brazil international, who made 43 appearances for Chelsea last season, was a top target for United manager Michael Carrick during the summer transfer window.
Santos' First Impressions at Old Trafford
Speaking from United's pre-season camp, Santos admitted his first week has been 'a little bit funny' but quickly felt at home. 'Since my first day I feel at home, so I think this is so important for me and for new players as well,' he said. 'Is it a step up from Chelsea? Yeah, of course. I know Chelsea is a big club as well, so I think thank you for everything Chelsea did for me in my period. But now Chelsea is gone, here is my home right now. And I want to be here for a long, long time and win so many trophies.'
The 22-year-old midfielder joined Chelsea in 2023 from boyhood club Vasco da Gama and finally broke into the first team last season, featuring heavily despite Chelsea's disappointing 10th-place Premier League finish, which left them without European football. In contrast, Manchester United improved dramatically after Carrick took over in January, finishing third and securing Champions League qualification.
Filling Casemiro's Boots
Santos is eager to step into the role previously occupied by Casemiro, who departed at the end of last season. 'I prefer playing deep like a number six,' he explained. 'I try help my teammates without the ball and with the ball I love breaking the lines. For me Casemiro is a legend. Now he's gone and I'm here. I feel that I can do like Casemiro did last season.'
United have also been dealt a blow with Manuel Ugarte suffering a serious injury, although the Uruguayan was already on the transfer list. To bolster their midfield further, the club signed Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for £35 million earlier this summer.
Pre-Season and Upcoming Fixtures
Manchester United drew 1-1 with Champions League holders PSG in a pre-season friendly on Saturday. Carrick's side have two more warm-up games against Leeds United and AC Milan before kicking off their Premier League campaign against newly-promoted Hull City.
Santos' arrival is part of a broader midfield overhaul at Old Trafford, with the club looking to rebuild after a turbulent period. The Brazilian's confidence and ambition suggest he is ready to embrace the challenge of playing for one of the world's biggest clubs.
