Estevao set for Chelsea exit after Alonso snub in Liverpool defeat
The Brazilian wonderkid was left unused as Chelsea fell to Liverpool, with reports suggesting a move away is now likely.
Xabi Alonso has insisted Estevao Willian will still get his chance at Chelsea, despite the 19-year-old being left on the bench during the Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool. According to Metro [1], the Brazilian wonderkid was conspicuous by his absence as the Blues lost on penalties at Anfield, a decision that has sparked immediate speculation about his future.
The Sun reported [2] that Estevao is almost certain to request an exit from Stamford Bridge following this latest snub. The forward, who joined from Palmeiras, has struggled to secure regular minutes under Alonso, starting only three games across all competitions this season. His exclusion was particularly striking given Chelsea were without suspended Cole Palmer and injured striker Joao Pedro.
Alonso addressed the situation in his post-match press conference, acknowledging that the situation is not ideal. “I understand his situation and that he could be happier for sure,” Alonso said, as cited by Metro [1]. He added that the physical nature of the game and late substitutions due to cramps for Malo Gusto and Moises Caicedo had limited their options. “We know that the season is going to be long and there will be moments for everyone. Trust me, I’m sure the season is going to be long and Este is going to play his role.”
However, pundits were less forgiving. Former Premier League striker Clinton Morrison told BBC Radio 5 Live that he could not understand why Estevao did not feature. “He must be thinking, what do I have to do? We have injuries to two of the star players up front and I’m still not getting on the pitch,” Morrison said, according to Metro [1]. Jobi McAnuff echoed these sentiments, suggesting something is specifically preventing Estevao from getting the game time expected of a player with 14 Brazil caps.
The BBC reported [3] that Alonso hinted Estevao is still adapting to the demands of English football. The manager pointed to the form of Pedro Neto, who has been deployed in a hybrid wing-back role that favours defensive solidity. Neto recently signed a new six-year deal, cementing his place in the team. With Morgan Rogers in spectacular form since his £117m move, the attack options are crowded.
Estevao’s last significant contribution came last October, when he scored a late winner against Liverpool. Since then, his influence has waned, with only 172 minutes played across all competitions. The coming weeks will reveal if Alonso’s promise of “moments” materialises, or if the Brazilian’s frustration leads to a high-profile transfer request.
Sources
This article is based on reporting by the outlets below.
