Estevao Willian has spoken out about his reduced involvement at Chelsea, saying his focus is on the variables within his control. The Brazil international has only made two starts for Xabi Alonso this season, both coming in the Carabao Cup. He has only made four further late substitute appearances in the Premier League, totalling a mere 23 minutes.
Instead, Alonso has chosen his attacking trident of Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer and summer signing Morgan Rogers, who have scored 10 goals between them this season. Estevao dealt with the issue without showing any bad feelings during the international window while representing his country. Speaking at a press conference in the Brazil camp, the winger said:
“I think every coach has their own way of playing. Of course, we work every day, I give my best every day, and that’s what I do. We have quality players at Chelsea, so what I do is focus on what I can control. I try to give my best in training.”
He then went on to explain the philosophy behind his response to such sporadic opportunities, adding:
“When I get an opportunity, I try to give my best; it goes day after day. I try to seize every opportunity I have, I try to control everything I can, and I leave it in God’s hands, and I trust myself a lot, too.”
There have been reports of genuine concern in the teenager’s camp about his situation in West London. He was notably brought on with three minutes to go in Friday’s 3-0 loss at Brentford.
Chelsea Ex-Winger Willian Backs Estevao To Become Stamford Bridge Regular
Former Chelsea winger Willian has called for patience over his countryman’s situation under the new regime. The veteran Brazilian, who spent seven years at Stamford Bridge before joining Arsenal in 2020, still believes the teenager has all the attributes needed. Speaking to ESPN, Willian gave his take on his countryman’s situation:
“Estevao is a different kind of player. He has great quality and a commanding presence. He undoubtedly draws attention and plays an important role in the Chelsea squad. He certainly has everything it takes to be a key figure.”
Estevao scored eight goals and registered three assists in 36 appearances, and only Pedro Neto completed more dribbles for the club last season. He was then ruled out of Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad because of a hamstring injury suffered in April. The discussion around his future will be dominated by the Alonso’s structural preferences and whether they can accommodate the forward until the January window opens.