It has become increasingly tiresome to witness the Estevao conversation develop every week at Chelsea. At every press conference, international break, and in every team selection, it is apparent that the Brazilian is the topic of discussion.
I understand the clamour around his name, and I do not think that he has been greatly overhyped. On the contrary, he deserves all that hype, because he’s exciting to watch. However, when it has come to his playing time under Xabi Alonso, it’s been something of a concern for some Chelsea fans.
The young forward has only featured in seven matches, with 154 minutes in total, playing mostly in the Carabao Cup. He has also been an unused substitute against Everton this past weekend, and I suspect that there will be even more questions about his position this week. Xabi Alonso spoke up about the matter earlier, explaining that Estevao will have his time and that he will get more playing opportunities.
Personally, I believe that he will get significant minutes in the coming months in the Premier League. With the busy schedule in December, Alonso will have his chance to play Estevao, and if the circumstances were different, the young forward would already have more experience in the competition.
Next season, when the Blues return to Europe, I believe that Estevao will have even more regular opportunities in the first team. He is still only 19, and while we are now used to seeing youngsters shining every week at that age, sitting on the bench will not waste his potential. His talent is undeniable, and he still has a lot of time to shine. That much is clear.
Why Estevao Has Reason to Be Disappointed
While my position on Estevao’s future at Chelsea is firm, I do think that it would be dishonest to ignore that he has had reasons to be disappointed with his situation. He played 36 times last season, scoring eight goals and providing three assists, which is an incredible amount for a young forward, especially at the highest level.
To see his playing time reduced so drastically can be disheartening for any footballer. Not to mention that he has had to deal with the recovery from a hamstring injury. To his credit, Estevao has shown incredible maturity in dealing with the situation, stating that he focuses on what he can control. He also puts in his best effort in training, which has certainly earned him points with Alonso. And when his opportunity comes, I think that Estevao will be more than ready to make the most of it.
My point is that talent will always find its way out. Chelsea fans should not be concerned about Estevao’s future at the club because it is inevitable that he will get playing time eventually.