Chelsea are treating Estevao Willian as one of their untouchable players despite increasing interest from other clubs. Several Premier League and European clubs were keeping a close eye on the 19-year-old after another night as an unused substitute at Anfield.
However, Estevao’s inclusion was justified against Manchester United on Saturday lunchtime. The youngster played his first league start of the season and caused problems for Diogo Dalot throughout the game. He had two goals ruled out for offside in the 2-0 win, one in each half. The win lifted Alonso’s side into 4th place with 16 points from 9 games.
Before yesterday, the Brazilian had only played 47 minutes in the Premier League, coming off the bench in every other league game. He failed to play in the Carabao Cup shootout defeat to Liverpool despite Cole Palmer’s suspension, and questions over Estevao’s role surfaced. However, Estevao has a contract at Stamford Bridge until the summer of 2033 and the club are not willing to entertain offers for him.
According to reports from Spain, Barcelona are currently leading the clubs monitoring the former Palmeiras star. Paris Saint-Germain are also reported to be interested in a loan deal after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia suffered a serious knee injury.
Alonso Takes Responsibility For Estevao’s Lack Of Play Time
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Alonso spoke about the speculation during his pre-game press conference ahead of the Manchester United game. The Spaniard confirmed there would be no loan move in January and stated the teenager was still in his plans. However, he admitted he was responsible for Estevao’s lack of playing time this season.
Asked if Estevao could be loaned out in January, Alonso said:
> “No, no, no. No discussions about that.”
The manager added that Estevao’s training and attitude had been good, and that it was a matter of waiting for his moment:
> “It’s not about attitude. It’s been about the context of games. Sure he will play. But I’m sure that in the season he will have his games, his minutes. And we are still early in the season, but he will be there.”
When asked how he deals with a frustrated young player, Alonso admitted he was responsible:
> “It’s no secret that all players want to be on the pitch; they want to be playing. I have to take the responsibility for that. But, as well, everyone has to be ready because in any game they could be important.”
Chelsea are next up against Sunderland away in the Premier League, and Estevao will be looking to build on his first league start of the season.