Andrey Santos has opened up on why he chose to leave Chelsea for Manchester United in a £50 million deal. Speaking after completing his move, the Brazilian midfielder pointed to the club’s history and new manager Michael Carrick as the biggest factors behind his decision.
Santos On Joining a Club of “Idols”
The 22-year-old did not hide his excitement about pulling on the United shirt. “Everything about Manchester United is special; it is an incredible feeling to join a club that some of my biggest idols have represented,” he said. This sense of history, he explained, played a major part in convincing him to make the switch.
Why Michael Carrick Was Central to the Decision
Santos also highlighted working under Carrick as a key reason for the move. “As a midfielder, I am really excited to have the opportunity to learn from Michael Carrick; he is the perfect coach to help me take the next step in my career and push to achieve my dreams,” he said. Given Carrick’s own background as a top-level Premier League midfielder, the appeal of learning directly from him is easy to understand.
Furthermore, Santos said the message from people around the club reinforced his belief that United was the right move. “Everybody told me about how ambitious the club is and the amazing environment that has been created here,” he added. “I know just how strong the squad is and I cannot wait to fight together to compete for the biggest trophies.”
A Fresh Start After Limited Chelsea Minutes
Santos joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama in 2023 and went on to make 47 appearances for the club across all competitions. However, regular starts proved difficult to come by, especially after Moises Caicedo signed a contract extension until 2033 earlier this year. As a result, the path to consistent first-team football became increasingly narrow at Stamford Bridge.
During his time in England, Santos also spent an 18-month loan spell at Chelsea’s sister club, Strasbourg, where he helped the side qualify for the UEFA Conference League and was named Ligue 1 Young Player of the Month in March 2024. He then returned to Chelsea in the summer of 2025 and was part of the squad that won the FIFA Club World Cup.
What This Means For Manchester United
Since Santos is comfortable playing both as a holding midfielder and in a box-to-box role, he gives Carrick valuable tactical flexibility as United continue reshaping their squad. Club officials also believe his personality and ambition make him a strong fit within the dressing room, which suggests the transfer was about more than just his on-field qualities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Andrey Santos leave Chelsea?
He cited Manchester United’s history and the chance to learn under Michael Carrick as his main reasons, alongside limited starting opportunities at Chelsea after Moises Caicedo’s contract extension.
How much did Manchester United pay for Andrey Santos?
The transfer is worth £50 million in total, made up of a guaranteed £48 million payment plus £2 million in add-ons, with Chelsea retaining a 10 percent sell-on clause.
What position does Andrey Santos play?
He operates as a versatile midfielder, comfortable both as a holding midfielder and in a box-to-box role.
