Enzo Maresca received some criticism for some of the decisions he made during Chelsea’s Champions League defeat to Atalanta.
The Blues ended the game with two right-backs, Reece James and Malo Gusto, in midfield, while Andrey Santos watched on from the bench.
Another player who was not used from the bench is Estevao Willian, despite the fact he had found the net in the previous three Champions League games.
Maresca said the need for another defender stopped Estevao coming onto the pitch, but with another sub still left to be made there were questions asked of the manager’s decision-making.
Atalanta BC v Chelsea FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6
Photo by Chris Ricco – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Estevao Willian fuming after being snubbed during Chelsea vs Atalanta
It seemed the Brazil international was another who was upset at the call to not bring him on, with his reaction spotted by the Mail Online.
They stated that the youngster covered his face in frustration after being snubbed by the manager.
The report goes on to say that Estevao was waiting to debut his new Nike boots, inspired by Brazilian legend Ronaldinho, however that moment will likely have to wait until the Blues take on Everton on Saturday.
The competition for places on the wings is strong, but Maresca needs to start naming his strongest attack in order to get back to winning ways, and the Brazil international is certainly part of that.
Atalanta BC v Chelsea FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Maresca must pair Estevao and Palmer vs Everton
Cole Palmer was left at home as the Blues travelled to Italy following his recent long-term injury.
This is a good decision by the manager, but with Chelsea desperate to put an end to a four-game winless run, Palmer has to start against Everton.
Estevao should join him in the starting side, leaving a decision for the manager to make on who starts on the left.
Has a Chelsea player ever scored a better goal than this?
More of the same on Saturday please, Alejandro!
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Alejandro Garnacho will be amongst the contenders, and has the benefit of scoring one of the best goals in Premier League history against Everton in the past.
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