Xabi Alonso has revealed why Estêvão Willian was left on the bench throughout the Carabao Cup exit to Liverpool on Wednesday night. The Brazilian winger was named on the bench but never got on, despite Cole Palmer serving a suspension and João Pedro missing for several weeks with a thigh injury. These absences left Alonso with less room to rotate in the first place.
Sections of the travelling support sang Estevao’s name through much of the second half. Speaking to reporters after the shootout, Alonso set out his reasoning on the 19-year-old’s omission:
“We have started with Pedro and Danny and Morgan up front. The game had very intense moments, we knew it was going to be physical. Malo as well, he had cramps.
We know the season is going to be long and there will be moments for everyone.
For sure, I understand his situation and he could be happier for sure. He wants to play and to be part of the team. There will be moments for everything.
I’m sure Este will have his moments – that’s my responsibility. We were quite forced [with subs] in the end.”
Two of the substitutions were forced by circumstance at Anfield. Maxence Lacroix was replaced in first-half stoppage time, with Levi Colwill coming on. Malo Gusto, Moisés Caicedo and Danny Welbeck all came off together on 68 minutes, replaced by Emmanuel Emegha, Marco Palestra and Valentín Barco. Morgan Rogers had scored from the spot, but Cody Gakpo equalised three minutes later from the penalty spot.
Asked why he did not turn to Estêvão from the bench, Alonso said:
“The game was really, really close. To come straight from the bench and to that competitive level, I thought that we could have waited.”
Estêvão has only started twice this season, both coming in this competition. He faced Luton Town and Leeds United.
Scott Sinclair Urges Estêvão Willian To Get Regular Game Time Away From Chelsea
The winger’s situation has already been commented on by members of the Chelsea family this month. Former Blues winger Scott Sinclair, who himself was loaned out six times during his time at the club, believes it makes sense for the player to go out on loan. He said:
“The longer you go without playing, the less match-fit you become, which makes it even harder to get into the side when an opportunity arises and that leads to doubt.
Only Estevao can decide what is best for him, but because he is so young, getting consistent game time is essential and having been in the same position, I’d say he should go and play.”
Chelsea legend Pat Nevin has also made a similar comment about the Brazilian’s situation, telling GOAL he “wouldn’t be surprised” if Estêvão pushed for a move. Alonso is adamant the game time will come, but January is the obvious point at which Estêvão’s future will have to be settled.