Estevao Willian had to be sacrificed during Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal last weekend, but the youngster will still be delighted with life at the moment.
Following Moises Caicedo’s red card, Estevao was taken off at half-time and replaced by Alejandro Garnacho as Enzo Maresca looked to bring on fresh legs and more experience.
Before Sunday’s London derby, though, the teenage winger managed to score a terrific goal in Chelsea’s 3-0 win against Barcelona.
Estevao’s stunning goal against Barcelona!
It is undoubtedly the highlight of his career so far, a career that could be about to get much better.
Joan Garcia in goal for Barcelona against Chelsea
Photo by Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Carlo Ancelotti confirms Chelsea wonderkid Estevao Willian is going to the World Cup
The World Cup is not until next summer, but Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has already confirmed that he will be taking Estevao to the tournament.
Asked whether the 18-year-old will feature at the 2026 World Cup, Ancelotti told Esporte Record: “Based on how Estevao has played in the last six months, I think so. Estevao will be at the World Cup.”
Carlo Ancelotti has high hopes for Estevao Willian
“Estevao has incredible talent on the right. With him, Brazil has a guarnateed future.”
Carlo Ancelotti
Like most South American forwards, Estevao’s game has a lot of flair and skill. However, that is not the only thing that spectators have spotted.
Former Chelsea midfielder Jody Morris recently spoke about Estevao, highlighting his work rate off the ball.
The Brazilian is expected to move to the No.10 position in the future, but it is quite clear that he definitely has all the attributes needed to become a successful wide man.
Estevao Willian of Brazil during the international friendly football match between Brazil and Tunisia
Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images
Estevao Willian deserves place in Brazil’s World Cup squad
A lot can happen between now and next year’s World Cup, but it is no surprise that Ancelotti has already made up his mind on Estevao. He warrants a seat on Brazil’s plane to the tournament.
Estevao is, of course, doing well for Chelsea at this moment in time, but he has also arguably been Brazil’s best player this year. With five goals to his name, Estevao is his nation’s top scorer in 2025.
Estevao outshone Vinicius Junior and scored in Brazil’s 2-0 win against Senegal during the last international break before netting again in a 1-1 draw with Tunisia.
Avoid injury, and the former Palmeiras star will be on the plane to North America next summer.