Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images
Photo by Albert Perez/Getty Images
Estevao Willian has struggled for minutes under Xabi Alonso at Chelsea this season, however was handed the chance to start for Brazil in an international friendly against Australia.
Despite club chiefs believing Estevao would be part of their strongest front four, Alonso has chosen to start with Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro in attack whenever they have been available.
This international break provides a great opportunity for the youngster though, given the fact both Palmer and Pedro have withdrawn from their squads due to injury concerns.
How Chelsea’s Estevao fared for Brazil vs Australia
Despite starting for Brazil, things did not go as planned for Estevao, with his side only able to manage a 1-1 draw in Queensland, despite Carlo Ancelotti naming a strong side.
Vinicius Jr, Bruno Guimaraes and Endrick joined the Chelsea man in the starting side, and Estevao played 76 minutes before he was replaced by Bournemouth’s Rayan, who ended up scoring the equaliser.
Estevao had four efforts at goal during the game, the most on the pitch during the time he was playing, however failed to trouble the goalkeeper with any of his attempts.
He also had their only big chance of the game while he was on the pitch, however failed to take it as he tries desperately to impress both club and country.
Estevao Willian's minutes
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
This does not take into account when he found the net in the first half with a fierce right-footed effort from the edge of the box, only for it to be disallowed upon further inspection by VAR.
The winger had no real luck up against his opposite full-back, completing just one dribble. Instead, he was forced to pass his way out of trouble a lot, completing 87% of his attempted passes.
It was far from the ideal outing for Estevao, however he has two more opportunities during this international break to make his mark. They will face Australia in a rematch, before a marquee friendly against India.