Andrey Santos is already facing scrutiny at Manchester United despite only recently arriving from Chelsea, with the midfielder given just 175 minutes of action so far this season.
The Manchester Evening News argues the intense media focus on United’s signings contrasts sharply with the treatment afforded to Manchester City’s new recruits. Ayyoub Bouaddi, who joined City for £86m from Lille, has played 187 minutes across two starts but has not faced similar questions about his impact.
The outlet points out that City spent £458m in the summer transfer window, with Bouaddi accounting for 18 per cent of that total, whilst United’s £150m budget means Santos—at 22 with Premier League experience—represents a third of their spending and draws greater expectations.
Santos impressed in pre-season and started the opening day against Hull before losing his place to Youri Tielemans, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes. Michael Carrick has used that midfield combination in most matches since, with Santos appearing only in the Carabao Cup win over Brighton alongside Mason Mount.
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