Chelsea fans are buzzing about Estevao Willian, the £29 million Brazilian wonderkid. After an impressive debut off the bench against Crystal Palace, everyone's asking: will he start against West Ham? Manager Enzo Maresca acknowledges the 18-year-old's talent but is urging caution.
Maresca's Careful Approach
Maresca has confirmed Estevao is in contention for his first start. "He is doing well since he arrived with us, even in the training sessions," Maresca said. "But for me, he needs a path. He is very young, so we have to be careful." He emphasized the need to assess Estevao's performance in training before making a final decision.
The wide pitch at the London Stadium could suit Estevao's tricky wing play. His direct running and quick feet impressed in his cameo against Palace, sparking excitement among Chelsea supporters.
Andrey Santos: Another Brazilian Star on the Rise
Maresca is also pleased with Andrey Santos, who returned from a loan spell at Strasbourg. Santos has shown versatility, capable of playing in both Enzo Fernandez's and Moi Caicedo's positions. He even started against Palmeiras in the Club World Cup, performing well as a No. 6.
Estevao's Preparation for the Premier League
Estevao has been diligently preparing for his move to Chelsea. He began learning English long before the transfer was finalized, recognizing its importance for his future career. He's been taking English lessons every weekday, fitting them around his training and game schedule.
His ambitions extend beyond Chelsea. Estevao dreams of playing in the Premier League, the Champions League, and representing Brazil in the 2026 World Cup. "It’s a dream come true to play in the biggest competitions," he said. "The 2026 World Cup is a goal too, but first, I have to prove myself at Chelsea."
Will Maresca unleash Estevao against West Ham, or will he continue with a more cautious approach? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Chelsea fans are eager to see more of this exciting young talent.