Photo by Harvey Murphy/News Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Photo by Harvey Murphy/News Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images
The free-flowing nature of Chelsea’s starting front three has made it very difficult for Estevao Willian to make his mark for the Blues this season.
The electric start to the season from Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers has made life very difficult for Estevao so far this season.
Chelsea originally believed the Brazilian would be part of their strongest front four, but Xabi Alonso’s system has not allowed an extra attacker to start.
Our problem is the formation our premier league formation is 4,2,3,1 alons must change the formation that is our only problem will need 4 in the back 🔙 line
No matter how excellent a head coach is, it is impossible to achieve good results lead a team that can't even make up the lineup.
Estevao has a new problem to worry about at Chelsea
He may have believed a decent chance was coming his way when it became clear Pedro wasn’t fit enough to feature against Brentford, and while Danny Welbeck started the Blues were chasing the game in the second half.
While it was already an issue for Estevao that he was not starting games, it will be equally as concerning that he was not the first attacker thrown on to try and get them back level.
Instead, fellow youngster Geovany Quenda was introduced, with the Brazil international having to wait until the 87th minute to enter proceedings when they were already 2-0 down.
Estevao’s only starts this season have come in the League Cup, and in truth he is simply not being given enough minutes to earn more of those opportunities.
Brentford v Chelsea FC - Premier League 2026/27
Photo by Harvey Murphy/News Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images
He may be about to find his best chance yet to make a statement to Alonso. Estevao has been recalled by Carlo Ancelotti for the upcoming Brazil fixtures after missing the World Cup due to injury.
The Blues considered Estevao a generational talent when they signed the youngster from Palmeiras, and he made a serious impact whenever given a chance in his first season at Stamford Bridge.
There is no reason for anyone to get too concerned yet, but falling behind Quenda in the pecking order would be a significant blow.
It remains to be seen if Alonso is willing to change things up when it comes to his style of play, because having a talent like Estevao sitting on the bench is going to cause issues in the long run.