Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has dismissed suggestions that Estevao could leave on loan in January despite his limited playing opportunities this season.
The 19-year-old has struggled to establish himself under Alonso, making just two starts across all competitions this season.
Both appearances came in the League Cup. Estevao has accumulated only 47 minutes of Premier League football despite being fully fit.
His lack of involvement has prompted speculation about a possible temporary departure when the transfer window reopens.
However, Alonso insists Chelsea have not considered sending the youngster elsewhere to secure regular first-team football.
“No, no discussions about that,” the Chelsea manager said when asked whether a January loan had been discussed.
Alonso also rejected suggestions that Estevao’s limited opportunities stemmed from concerns about his professionalism or commitment.
“It is not about attitude,” he explained, attributing the situation to the circumstances of individual matches and Chelsea’s start to the season.
The Spaniard acknowledged that the winger was still adapting after suffering a hamstring injury earlier this year.
However, he is confident that Estevao will play an important role as the campaign progresses.
“We are still in October, and he will be important,” Alonso said.
The Brazilian’s situation attracted further attention after he remained an unused substitute during Chelsea’s League Cup elimination against Liverpool on Wednesday.
Despite his lack of regular club football, Estevao has received another call-up to Brazil’s senior squad, his second international selection this season.
Alonso admitted that players naturally become frustrated when they are not receiving the opportunities they believe they deserve.
He accepted responsibility for selection decisions and stressed that every squad member must be ready to contribute.
The Chelsea manager also revealed that he maintains regular communication with Estevao to explain his decisions and understand the youngster’s perspective.
The winger’s attitude in training has remained positive throughout his spell on the sidelines.
Chelsea’s immediate attention now turns to Saturday’s Premier League encounter against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues are dealing with several defensive injuries ahead of the fixture, with Maxence Lacroix expected to be unavailable until after the November international break.
Reece James and Jorrel Hato are also sidelined, while Aaron Anselmino is still working towards full fitness.
However, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez could return next week after suffering a broken jaw.