Estevao Willian has captured the imagination of supporters during his opening months at Chelsea, so it’s interesting to hear what Blues legend Cesar Azpilicueta makes of the breakout talent.
Unlike most teenagers, Estevao Willian joined Chelsea from Palmeiras this summer with a huge profile. The 18-year-old winger is starting to live up to the hype, too.
He arrived at Stamford Bridge off the back of some top-level experience with Palmeiras, playing 83 first-team games for the Brazilian club.
On Wednesday night, the youngster scored his first-ever Champions League goal, powering in a penalty in the 5-1 home victory against Ajax. Apparently, Estevao was anxious ahead of playing Ajax, but you wouldn’t have known with the way he entertained and turned on the style in midweek.
Estevao Willian celebrates scoring for Chelsea against Ajax in the Champions League.
Photo by Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images
Cesar Azpilicueta excited by Estevao Willian
Sevilla defender Cesar Azpilicueta, who had 11 amazing years at Chelsea, has made it clear that he’s a major fan of Estevao.
When asked on Flashscore’s TikTok who excites him the most from the current Chelsea squad, Azpilicueta answered: “Estevao.”
Even though Cole Palmer is the poster boy at Chelsea, rightly so, Estevao could soon be coming for that crown, largely because of the way he plays on a football pitch.
Most importantly, Estevao’s relationship with Enzo Maresca is positive, and the Blues head coach is playing a pivotal role in helping the South American prodigy adapt to his new home.
Of course, the fanbase are desperate for the left-footed trickster to play every single minute, something he already looks good enough to do. However, he’s coming in and out of the XI, with Maresca picking and choosing to deploy him. It was a no-brainer for him to complete 90 minutes against Ajax, tormenting their defence and charming the crowd.
Estevao Willian warms up before Chelsea against Ajax in the Champions League.
Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
The Estevao Willian record vs Ajax
Estevao, Chelsea’s youngest goalscorer in the Champions League, broke many records in the masterclass against Ajax.
In particular, the Brazil international set a record for the most touches in the final third during a match in the 2025-26 Champions League.
When Estevao is on the pitch, he usually makes things happen, even if his end product isn’t always there just yet. It is a quite frightening thought to think the level he can reach as he matures in future years.