Chelsea are preparing for a title-race clash against Arsenal on Saturday, and Brazil legend Ronaldinho has sent a message to Estevao Willian.
What we have seen from Estevao so far since coming to England has shown he is cut from the same cloth as iconic Brazilian wingers before him — Ronaldinho included.
Enzo Maresca was asked whether Estevao starts against Arsenal, but remained tight-lipped.
After the performance against Barcelona, his should be the first name on the teamsheet, but the Chelsea boss has been using his new superstar sparingly.
One person who clearly thinks Estevao is ready to shine is Ronaldinho, and he sent his compatriot a message in the wake of a Champions League masterclass.
Finish this sentence: Enzo Maresca should start ______ on the right wing vs Arsenal
Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images
Ronaldinho’s message to Estevao on Instagram
Estevao has shocked Chelsea fans with how well he has settled in at such a young age.
He recently featured on a Nike Football Instagram post promoting his new boot, inspired by R10 himself.
Ronaldinho responded to the post, saying: “Time to shine Guri!!! Be happy, play with joy and everything will be fine!!!”
Joy is the perfect word to encapsulate Estevao’s play. The goal against Barcelona is just the latest example.
Estevao’s stunning goal against Barcelona!
The 18-year-old excites every time the ball comes to his feet, not dissimilar to how Ronaldinho made fans feel when he was at the peak of his powers. It’s a trajectory Estevao will be keen to follow.
Estevao has to start against Arsenal
In the absence of Cole Palmer, Estevao is Chelsea’s best creative outlet.
In a game of this magnitude, the outcome could be decided by a moment of magic. Arsenal are the best defence in the league by far, and Mikel Arteta will set his team up with a clean sheet as the top priority.
The idea of not over-extending Estevao has paid off in spades and shows Maresca knows how to coach young talent.
Estevao celebrates his goal for Chelsea vs Barcelona
Photo by Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images
But games like this are what the top players live for.
What’s the point in having one of the most exciting talents in the Premier League if not to make a difference against the very best opposition?