Chelsea’s individual quality eventually shone through in the crucial Champions League group stage match against Napoli.
The Blues fought back to win 3-2 in Italy, securing a top six finish and eliminating Antonio Conte’s side from the competition in the process.
Joao Pedro’s sensational second-half brace turned things around on the pitch, as Rasmus Hojlund admitted Napoli ran out of steam towards the end of the game.
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Both of his goals were assisted by Cole Palmer, as he gave a timely reminder of the quality he possesses in a 45 minute appearance.
SSC Napoli v Chelsea FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8
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Micah Richards believes Estevao Willian can win the Ballon d’Or
Chelsea attacked well for the majority of the game, with Estevao Willian continuing to show his immense potential after being trusted with another start.
The Brazil international is enjoying a fantastic first season in England, and Micah Richards believes Chelsea have a potential Ballon d’Or winner on their hands.
He told CBS Sports: “Now this player is so special.
“So young, so energetic. I mean, he’s got five goals in 11 for Brazil already, just 18. But what I love about him, he’s fearless. He can go both ways, left-footed player, and then finishes with his right.
“Absolutely brilliant. How many times have we seen young players make the wrong decisions at the wrong times? Absolutely brilliant. I just want you to look at his ball control. He keeps the ball within two yards. We spoke about it earlier in the green room. Jamie passed it on to me. Just using his body, and then the finish is exquisite.
“I think he’s a genuine superstar to come over from Brazil to England and do what he’s doing at his age. We’re talking Ballon d’Or potential. That’s how big I’m going with it.”
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Estevao waiting for Chelsea to deliver on promise
Chelsea beat the likes of PSG to signing Estevao in the first place, with him establishing himself as the face of the project of bringing in young players into the club.
It was reported that one of the promises they made the attacker was that he would feature in the number 10 role, which has so far not occurred.
Even during Palmer’s long-term absence from the first team squad, he has not been handed an opportunity by either Enzo Maresca or Liam Rosenior to feature there.
Being just 18 years old, Estevao has plenty of time to play in the role he would ideally like to at Stamford Bridge, however for now he is doing a fantastic job as an option on the right-wing.
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