John Terry believes Estevao can eventually make himself extremely difficult for Xabi Alonso to leave out of the Chelsea starting XI.
The Brazilian has found minutes harder to come by this season, with Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Joao Pedro and Pedro Neto all competing for places in Alonso’s attack.
But Terry remains convinced the 19-year-old will force his way back into the side.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, with his comments reported by Football365, the former Chelsea captain praised Estevao’s explosiveness, strength and long-term potential.
Terry believes the youngster needs a run of games and expects opportunities to arrive as Chelsea rotate across a demanding schedule.
His prediction is that once Estevao gets that opportunity, he could eventually cement his place in Alonso’s team.
🗣 John Terry: "Estevao looked good, he looked sharp. He looks a bit bigger and stronger, I saw him in the gym the other day and he looks like he’s developing and getting stronger." pic.twitter.com/fneemvpaGT
— Vince™ (@Blue_Footy) September 14, 2026
Estevao faces major Chelsea competition
That would represent another important step in Estevao’s development.
Chelsea’s official review of last season shows he made 36 appearances, including 20 starts, scoring eight goals and registering three assists during his first campaign in England.
His pathway has become more complicated this season.
ReadChelsea previously examined how Estevao was pushing Alonso towards a selection decision before the Leeds match, but competition for attacking positions remains fierce.
Alonso has nevertheless made clear that Chelsea still see a major future for the Brazilian. Sky Sports carried the manager’s recent comments, with Alonso stressing Estevao remains an important part of the club’s long-term plans.
That makes Terry’s prediction particularly interesting.
Estevao does not simply need minutes.
He now needs to make his next opportunity count.
Terry clearly believes that once he does, leaving him out could become Alonso’s much harder decision.
Chelsea Women vs Birmingham: TV channel, live stream and kick-off time
Chelsea Women vs Birmingham: TV channel, live stream and kick-off time
Brentford injury news vs Chelsea: Collins out, Jensen major doubt
Brentford injury news vs Chelsea: Collins out, Jensen major doubt