Incoming Chelsea forward Estevao Willian has sent a message as he looks to help Brazil qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
The Blues signed Estevao from Palmeiras last summer, agreeing on an initial deal worth £29million plus performance-related bonuses. However, he will remain at the Brazilian club until July. Estevao has since made 59 appearances for Palmeiras, contributing 20 goals and 10 assists across all competitions.
The Brazilian's impressive performances in his native country saw him called up to his senior national team squad last summer for the first time. The 17-year-old is also involved in Brazil's current squad but remained on the bench during their 2-1 win over Colombia on Friday.
Nevertheless, he has sent a message on social media, thanking God for the opportunity to be involved in Dorival Junior's squad. "God is too good, only thank God for every opportunity," he said on Instagram.
Estevao will be hoping to earn some game time under Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca when he moves to Stamford Bridge this summer. The winger will turn 18 in April.
His performances in Brazil have been hard to ignore, having won the ESPN Brasileirão Player of the Season award, making him the youngest winner since Neymar in 2011. Estevao was also named 'Best Forward'.
Speaking in July, manager Ceni said: "A special player, just like we saw Lucas [Beraldo] emerge at Sao Paulo and Neymar at Santos. He's very talented despite the young age and made good decisions during the game. He has everything to become one of the greatest in the world of football."
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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