Chelsea are back in pre-season action just three weeks after winning the Club World Cup, however it was a player who wasn’t even in their squad then who stole all the headlines in their first friendly.
Estevao Willian made his first appearance at Stamford Bridge after his long-awaited move from Palmeiras, and it took just 18 minutes of his first appearance for him to make his mark.
The Brazil international tapped in from close range after Cole Palmer had hit the crossbar to give Chelsea the lead against Bayer Leverkusen,
The Blues went on to win the game 2-0, after Joao Pedro’s late goal. They made plenty of changes throughout the 90 minutes which also saw new signings Jamie Gittens and Jorrel Hato make their first appearances.
Despite it being his debut after a very high-profile move, Estevao showed no nerves and was the most dangerous player on the pitch before he was replaced in the second half.
Estevao Willian celebrates during Chelsea FC v Bayer 04 Leverkusen - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images
Chelsea fans in awe of Estevao Willian after debut goal
Chelsea fans will have been unsure exactly the quality of player they were signing, however quickly took to social media to share just how impressed they were with his first outing.
One user said: “I’m not overreacting but Estevao is winning the Ballon d’Or.”
MORE CHELSEA STORIES
Another added: “Estevao looking like one of our best players immediately? Surprise, surprise…”
A third claimed: “Football isn’t complicated. I know a baller when I see one. First touch, movement, using space, knowing when to dribble or pass. From Day 1, I knew Mudryk wasn’t levels. Estêvão? HE’S HIM.”
Another user stated: “Estevao is a special one. Confirmed.”
Finally, one user said: “I’ve seen enough. Estevao is the best player in the world.”
Estevao Willian and Andrey Santos celebrate during Chelsea FC v Bayer 04 Leverkusen - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images
Estevao’s Chelsea debut stats
As well as the goal, it was a very encouraging outing for Estevao as he looked to leave an impression on Enzo Maresca a week before the Premier League campaign gets underway.
Estevao stats vs Bayer Leverkusen Total
Minutes 75
Goals 1
Shots 7
Duels won 3/7
Passes 24/29
With there being less than 48 hours before the Blues are back in action again against AC Milan at Stamford Bridge, it remains to be seen if he is given a chance to state his claim for a starting role against Crystal Palace.
With a busy season on four fronts expected for Chelsea, they will be delighted to know that Estevao will be able to offer them a serious option straight after joining the club.