Jason Cundy made an intriguing observation about Estevao Willian’s physicality during Chelsea’s win against Ajax in midweek.
The Blues enjoyed a fantastic outing on Wednesday night in the Champions League, recording an impressive 5-1 victory at home to Dutch giants Ajax.
Estevao Willian, 18, was one of the stars of the show at Stamford Bridge. Not only did he score an emphatic penalty, but he also lit up the European fixture for 90 minutes with a skilful and carefree performance.
On a night when Estevao became Chelsea’s youngest Champions League scorer, the supporters were treated to an entertaining display from the Brazilian attacker, who tormented Ajax from the right wing.
Chelsea star Estevao Willian kisses the ball before taking a penalty against Ajax in the Champions League.
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
Jason Cundy notices Estevao Willian can handle the physical battle
Even though Estevao has quite a small frame, Jason Cundy spotted against Ajax the Chelsea youngster doesn’t back down from physical encounters.
Cundy said via Chelsea’s official app (9:25pm, 22 October): “He’s not the biggest, but boy, will he dig. He’s not afraid to go shoulder to shoulder with whoever he comes across… He’s got everything you love in a footballer… His energy levels – he’s encouraging. He chases everything.”
We agree that Estevao has equipped himself at Chelsea very quickly, proving he can’t be bullied by opposition players. Perhaps nobody should be surprised because he arrived in the summer off the back of regular first-team football in Palmeiras for the past 18 months.
As he gets older and inevitably grows stronger, he could be unplayable for opponents.
Estevao, who’s nominated for the Golden Ball award, looks ready in every sense to start games on a regular basis in the Premier League and Champions League. It does feel like Blues head coach Enzo Maresca is carefully using him, though.
Chelsea star Estevao Willian battling with Ajax's Youri Baas in the Champions League match at Stamford Bridge.
Photo by Joris Verwijst/BSR Agency/Getty Images
Estevao Willian stats vs Ajax
Chelsea and Estevao certainly played with the handbrake off in a one-sided contest against Ajax.
Here is a look at the Brazilian talent’s stats from the Champions League win via FOTMOB:
Minutes played – 90
Goals – 1
Assists – 0
Total shots – 8
Chances created – 2
Accurate passes – 34/37 (92%)
Penalties won – 1
Touches – 70
Touches in opposition box – 14
Successful dribbles – 2/6 (33%)
Ground duels won – 3/12 (25%)
Was fouled – 1
Fouls committed – 2
Match rating – 8.6
If Estevao doesn’t start on Saturday against Sunderland in the Premier League, we suspect a huge uproar from the fanbase. However, we’re 50-50 on whether the South American star will be in the XI.