Chelsea are getting ready for a huge title race against Arsenal on Saturday, and Ronaldinho sent a message of support to teenage star Estevao Willian just in time. The 18-year-old winger has become the talk of world football after an outstanding performance in the Champions League against Barcelona. Now, before the London derby, he has received the highest praise.
The Blues are looking to close the gap on the league leaders this weekend, and all eyes are on their summer signing after his heroics in the middle of the week. Estevao was recently featured in an Instagram post from Nike Football showcasing his new boots, inspired by Ronaldinho’s famous boots.
The Ballon d’Or winner and Brazil legend replied directly to the post, giving the Chelsea star advice. He said:
“Time to shine Guri!!! Be happy, play with joy and everything will be fine!!!”
“Joy” might be the best word to describe how Estevao has played since he got to Stamford Bridge. His solo goal in the 3-0 win over Barcelona, where he beat two defenders and then shot past the goalie, was the most recent example of the flair that has led people to compare him to great Brazilian players of the past.
Will Estevao Play for Chelsea Against Arsenal?
A lot of Chelsea fans are wondering if Enzo Maresca will let the teen play from the start against the Premier League’s best defense. Cole Palmer hasn’t been playing lately, so Estevao has become Chelsea’s most dangerous creative player.
Mikel Arteta’s team has the best defense in the league, so the Gunners manager will probably make sure his team keeps a clean sheet as their top priority. One moment of magic can often change the outcome of a game of this size, which makes a strong case for Estevao’s inclusion.
Maresca has taken good care of the young player so far, using him only when necessary to keep him from burning out. Not pushing Estevao too hard has worked out, showing that Maresca knows how to work with young talent. But top players live for games like the London derby.
When reporters asked Maresca whether Estevao would start against Arsenal, he didn’t answer. The Chelsea manager might not want to depend too much on an 18-year-old, but Estevao has shown that he is just like the great wingers who came before him. His manager will have a hard time leaving him on the bench after how well he played against Barcelona.