Despite putting in a star performance last time out for Brazil, Chelsea star Estevao Willian actually has an issue which could rule him out of their next fixture.
Estevao started in a star-studded Brazil attack which dominated South Korea last time out, scoring twice for his country in the 5-0 win.
Brazilian media raved about Estevao’s performance for the national side, with him already proving that he should be among the starters on a regular basis.
Things couldn’t be going too much better for the youngster right now, after he announced himself to the Stamford Bridge faithful with his last-minute winner against Liverpool.
South Korea v Brazil - International Friendly
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Chelsea will be worried as Estevao Willian is a doubt for Brazil’s next game
However, despite being part of Carlo Ancelotti’s plans to start in their next game against Japan, there are doubts over whether the youngster will be able to feature at all.
As per GE Globo, Estevao has tested positive for the flu, and is a doubt to play, with West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta lined up to replace him in the starting side.
The report goes on to say that there are not too many concerns over his condition, although he is set to be assessed when they train on Monday.
Enzo Maresca will be worried that this may be an issue which carries into his club career, with Chelsea back in action on Saturday against Nottingham Forest.
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This could be a game that the Brazilian was in line to start, especially with the other injury problems going on at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea winger Estevao Willian celebrating last-minute goal
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Estevao could be asked to step up amid Cole Palmer’s absence.
It has been reported that Cole Palmer will not be fit to return straight after the international break, and instead is facing a race against time to play again in October.
This will leave Maresca scrapping for options when it comes to replacing him, and could be further scuppered with news of Enzo Fernandez’s injury concern.
Estevao would be the perfect replacement for Palmer in the starting side, with him having plenty of experience in a central role from his time at Palmeiras.
The Blues will be hoping he doesn’t feature as a precaution against Japan, and instead returns to Cobham where he can prepare to make an impact at the City Ground.