Estevao Willian’s form has impressed everyone this season, and while Troy Deeney has no complaints about the Brazilian, he does point out a broader Chelsea issue.
Deeney is just one of many coming out to praise Estevao as the 18-year-old continues to exceed expectations for Chelsea and Brazil.
Speaking to the media after another impressive international display, Estevao claimed he’s only getting better.
Deeney reckons he knows the level the Chelsea man is approaching, comparing him to one of the greatest Brazilians to play the game.
Estevao of Chelsea during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Chelsea
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Estevao ‘the next Neymar but Deeney not convinced by Chelsea’s other wingers
Deeney has nothing but good things to say about Chelsea’s new superstar, recalling the moment he was let know about the Estevao hype.
Appearing on talkSPORT, he said: “They [Chelsea] have got the young kid Estevao who’s going to be an absolute monster. I remember at the Club World Cup, we did a show with [Jose] Kleberson and he said to us at that time that this is the next Neymar, and it was a massive statement.
“But he wasn’t one of like him trying to just pick up a South American. He was like telling us he’s the next Neymar. Since then obviously I kept an eye on him and he’s been fantastic.”
Like all of us, Deeney has loved watching the young winger electrify on the football pitch, but isn’t as convinced by his teammates.
He continues: “But he’s the only real top quality winger you’ve got at the moment out of the four or five that you’ve got.”
While Estevao has the former striker excited, the other Chelsea
Chelsea’s other wingers assessed
Deeney’s claim throws Pedro Neto, Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens into question.
The Portuguese has never been the same kind of threat when it comes to goals and assists, playing as more of an initiator. He has looked more dangerous of late, though, grabbing a goal against his former side before the break.
After missing international duty through injury, Neto is back in Chelsea training, and will hopefully continue on his current trajectory upon returning.
As for the two new signings, Maresca’s life is being made difficult by Garnacho and Gittens both coming into their own on the left. Neither has lit the world on fire, but they appear to be improving game by game.
Deeney’s point is harsh. Maybe those three aren’t playing at the highest level, but Neto is getting there, and the two youngsters seem to be settling more as time goes on.
Estevao, though, has been on a different level altogether.