Chelsea Midfielder Breaks Kanté’s Record After Smart Rosenior Switch.
Chelsea’s midfield looked much stronger in the 3–1 win over Crystal Palace after a key tactical change from head coach Liam Rosenior.
With Cole Palmer injured, Rosenior started Andrey Santos alongside Moisés Caicedo in central midfield. This allowed Enzo Fernández to move higher up the pitch into the number 10 role.
It was a system many Chelsea fans had been expecting — and it worked perfectly.
Rosenior’s Midfield Tweak Pays Off
Rosenior and Santos enjoyed success together at Strasbourg, so the change felt long overdue. Until now, Chelsea had mostly used Enzo and Caicedo as a double pivot, with Palmer or João Pedro playing behind the striker.
Against Crystal Palace, Santos added balance and energy in midfield, while Enzo looked more dangerous further forward. Chelsea controlled the game better and looked more solid.
Andrey Santos Breaks Kanté-Era Record
Statistics prove just how good Santos was.
According to Squawka, Andrey Santos became the first Chelsea midfielder in 10 years to record:
3+ tackles
3+ interceptions
3+ clearances
3+ fouls won
This achievement is even more impressive because it includes the N’Golo Kanté era.
A Santos–Caicedo partnership gives Chelsea strength, energy, and quality on the ball — especially against physical teams.
What This Means for Chelsea Going Forward
This system solves many midfield problems, but it raises one question: where does Cole Palmer fit when he returns?
For now, that’s a good problem for Rosenior to have.
João Pedro Also Shines
In another positive moment, João Pedro scored and assisted after a difficult start to his Chelsea career. It was one of his best performances this season and a strong case for more starts.