18-year-old Estevao Willian made his debut in Chelsea’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace in the Premier League.
From the start, Enzo Maresca opted to give Jamie Gittens his full Chelsea debut on the left, with Pedro Neto taking up a familiar role on the right.
However, with Chelsea somewhat struggling to create chances at Stamford Bridge, Maresca decided to shuffle his pack soon after half-time.
And with 54 minutes gone on the clock, Estevao Willian replaced Gittens and the Brazilian enjoyed just over half an hour attacking Palace’s back line from the right.
Estevao added real dynamism to Chelsea’s attack, and all in all, it was an excellent debut by the exciting teenager.
Estevao Willian has a special connection with Cole Palmer at Chelsea
That being said, Estevao spoke to Sky Sports after full-time, and he was asked about his early days in west London.
And in particular, the former Palmeiras forward was asked about his connection with Cole Palmer, who is already helping his new teammate thrive at Chelsea.
Cole Palmer of Chelsea celebrates with goalscorer Estevao during the pre-season friendly match between Chelsea and Bayer Leverkusen at Stamford Bridge on August 8.
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
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The interviewer pointed out that Estevao had been seen talking to Palmer on the pitch several times throughout pre-season, and also against Palace.
And asked about their connection and why they already seem to complement each other, Estevao replied (in Portuguese): “Well, I think that’s a good question. I think it’s because of the way he plays, right?
“I think he’s practically like my brother, me on the wing attacking well, he can connect the game well on both sides, so it ends up being easier for my adaptation also because of the way he plays.
“So I’m very happy.”
Enzo Maresca gives his verdict on Estevao Willian’s Chelsea debut
Following his display, Chelsea fans were seriously impressed by Estevao – they’re excited to see what the future holds for the Brazilian.
And fortunately for Estevao, Maresca seemed similarly optimistic for the winger’s future when speaking at his press conference after the match.
Maresca said: “He was very good. He showed personality, he’s already shown that in the training sessions.
“For sure, no doubt that slowly, slowly he will be a very important player for this club.
And although Estevao wasn’t quite able to take his chance to win the game, he showcased all of his skill and talent when blitzing past former blue Marc Guehi.
Chelsea have been linked with a Guehi reunion this summer, but it doesn’t currently seem as if the Palace captain will be on his way to Stamford Bridge.