Chelsea have received a big vote of confidence over two of their Brazilian attackers, with Willian backing both Estevao and João Pedro to play major roles at Stamford Bridge.
The former Blues winger has been speaking to ESPN Brazil about the Brazilian contingent in the Premier League. His strongest praise was reserved for two players now working under Xabi Alonso.
Willian spent seven years at Chelsea and played 327 Premier League matches during spells with the Blues, Arsenal and Fulham. He knows plenty about what it takes to make an impact in England.
Willian sees Estevao becoming Chelsea’s main man
For Estevao, he believes the ceiling is particularly high.
“Estevao is a different player, he has a lot of quality and he is also a player who can take centre stage,” Willian said.
“He is a player who catches the eye, without a doubt. He has an important role in the Chelsea team and he certainly has everything to become the protagonist.”
Estevao’s first season at Chelsea was disrupted by injury. That problem also cost him a place at the World Cup with Brazil. The start of Xabi Alonso’s reign has then brought another challenge.
We covered earlier this week that Estevao has concerns about his reduced opportunities under the Spaniard. He is said to be reflecting on his Chelsea future as a result.
However, Willian clearly has no doubts about the youngster’s ability to establish himself.
Chelsea also ‘in good hands’ with João Pedro
Estevao isn’t the only Chelsea Brazilian to receive Willian’s approval. João Pedro has taken the number nine shirt this season and immediately made his mark. He scored inside the opening minute of Chelsea’s Premier League victory over Fulham.
That new shirt brings greater responsibility, but Willian doesn’t see it becoming a problem.
“João Pedro has enough quality and potential to take on that responsibility [of being the number nine],” he said.
“He is a player who has been playing very well since last season and can improve even more. So, without a doubt, Chelsea are in good hands in that position.”
João Pedro’s situation is somewhat different from Estevao’s. He already appears to have been handed a prominent role in Alonso’s side.
He believes their new number nine is ready for the responsibility already on his shoulders. As for Estevao, the 38-year-old thinks there is enough talent there for him to eventually become one of the main men at Stamford Bridge.
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