Estêvão Willian emerged as a key player in Chelsea’s recent 2-1 victory over Liverpool, showcasing his talent on the pitch. Chelsea secured his signature more than a year prior to his move, creating significant anticipation among the club’s officials.
Estêvão’s Background and Achievements
Before joining Chelsea, Estêvão played for Palmeiras, where he made a notable exit by scoring from a tight angle in his final match. During his time at the Brazilian club, he accumulated impressive stats:
- 27 goals
- 15 assists
- 83 appearances
He made history by being the first under-18 player to achieve 20 goal involvements in a single season in Brazil’s Serie A, surpassing records previously held by Neymar. With 12 goals and eight assists that season, his performance caught the eye of football fans and experts alike.
Recognition and Notable Matches
Estêvão was honored as the ‘superior player of the match’ twice during the Club World Cup. He notably impressed against teams like Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, earning affectionately the nickname “Messinho,” which means “Little Messi.” His skill and potential made Chelsea’s acquisition feel like a coup, outmaneuvering top clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich.
Choosing Chelsea
Estêvão opted for Chelsea over other leading European clubs due to faith in their vision and the promise of significant playing time. He consulted with former Chelsea defender Thiago Silva before making his decision. His aspirations include representing Brazil in the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Impact on Chelsea’s Season
Chelsea planned to introduce Estêvão gradually into the squad. However, Palmer’s injury led to Estêvão stepping into a more prominent role, featuring in every match except one due to illness. He continues to prove his worth, contributing to the team’s successes.
With Palmer’s potential return from injury after the international break, Estêvão remains a pivotal figure, poised to deliver impactful performances for Chelsea in the season ahead.
