19-year-old breaks silence on failed loan as Chelsea future outlined – timeline for talks set

Andrey Santos has expressed his disappointment over his Nottingham Forest loan spell after Chelsea opted to recall the teenager earlier this month.

The 19-year-old was in high demand last summer as clubs fought for his signature to take him on loan for the 2023/24 season, with Andrey impressing in pre-season during Chelsea‘s tour of the United States.

It was decided Nottingham Forest would be his destination, to gain top-flight experience under then manager Steve Cooper. However, it failed to materialise as all parties had hoped it would.

After just two appearances in all competitions, as well as Nuno Espírito Santo replacing sacked Cooper, Chelsea made the decision to bring the Brazilian back to Stamford Bridge.

No decision has been made over Andrey‘s next move. He is currently away with the Brazil squad for the Pre-Olympic Tournament in Venezuela in a bid to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris this summer.

Whilst away with Brazil, Andrey opened up in an interview ge.globo following his Forest switch. He expressed responsibility for the move, however is ready to give his all when he returns for whatever clubs he is representing.

“It was my choice (the loan),” he admitted. “Unfortunately it wasn’t how we all imagined. I imagined that I was going to play and so on, I was always ready, always well, but it was the coach’s choice, and I respect it. 

“I continued working and, thank God, I’m back at Chelsea, ready to do my best in any team I’m in.”

When talks will take place over his future have also been revealed. Andrey confirmed discussions with head coach Mauricio Pochettino had already taken place.

He added: “I thank God for the pre-season I had, which was very good for Chelsea. Almost nobody expected that I would arrive and adapt so quickly, with great players, and I had never played in Europe. I played great games against good teams, Brighton, Newcastle. 

“Regarding the conversation with Pochettino, we preferred to wait for this Pre-Olympic, to decide my situation.”

Pochettino also confirmed the club’s stance earlier this month, explaining: “For one month, he is going to be out of the dynamic of the club.

“During this time, we will decide if it is good for him to move on loan again or whether he stays with us when he is back from the national team.”