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Former footballer Ronaldo Nazario has praised Chelsea-bound Willian Estevao and compared him to Barcelona's Lamine Yamal. The Brazilian legend believes the teenager is talented and will be a big name in the game.
Speaking to the media at the Club World Cup draw, Ronaldo revealed that Estevao will be playing for Palmeiras at the tournament in the United States. He added the 17-year-old Brazilian was bound for glory.
"He's a young player and very talented. He's kind of like Lamine Yamal. He will soon be a very big star in football. He's very promising, and at just 17. I think he'll play for Palmeiras at the Club World Cup then join Chelsea," Ronaldo said (via The Guardian).
Chelsea signed Estevao last summer for a deal that could rise to £51 million in the future based on add-ons. The teenager has to wait until he turns 18 before leaving Brazil. He will move to Stamford Bridge after the Club World Cup next summer.
When Chelsea-bound Willian Estevao said he follows Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo
Chelsea-bound Willian Estevao has been nicknamed 'Messinho.' He once said he follows the Argentine icon, along with Neymar Jr. and Cristiano Ronaldo. He revealed that the two great players are his main inspirations, saying earlier this year (via The Guardian):
“I like Neymar a lot too, Cristiano Ronaldo. But my reference is [Lionel] Messi for everything he’s done for football. The way he plays and what he does off the pitch is a guy I always have to look up to. And, of course, for me being left-footed like him favours as well. Some people are born with talent, others have to work hard. Good examples are Messi and Ronaldo."
He added:
"Messi has the talent, Ronaldo the effort. I look for both. Talent and dedication. Today in football you have to dedicate yourself, you have to keep to a schedule, train, travel, take care of yourself. You have to give up a lot. Without dedication you can’t get anywhere.”
Willian Estevao also revealed that he started his career as a goalkeeper, as his father played in that position. He added that the decision to play as a winger came after he grew up and was thankful for it.
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Edited by Parag Jain