Man United star Andrey Santos sends message to Mauricio Pochettino after dazzling Brazil display - verdict

Santos impressed for Brazil against Japan with 95% pass accuracy and won all three ground duels, catching the eye of new manager Pochettino who knows him from Chelsea.

Andrey Santos has a fresh opportunity at Manchester United under new manager Mauricio Pochettino after impressing for Brazil in their 3-2 friendly loss to Japan.

The midfielder, who arrived from Chelsea in the summer, has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under previous management, making just four Premier League appearances. However, his performance against Japan has given him reason for optimism.

Santos completed 95 per cent of his passes, misplacing just two out of 42 attempts, and succeeded with his only attempted long pass and dribble. He also won all three of his ground duels.

Pochettino is already familiar with Santos from their time together at Chelsea in 2023, when the Argentine manager decided to send him out on loan to Nottingham Forest. Since then, Santos has developed into a more experienced and complete player. With a new manager in place, he has a chance to start with a clean slate and force his way into the starting XI.