Future Chelsea talent Estevao Willian marked his international debut for Brazil on 7th September. He became the fifth youngest player ever to represent them at the senior international level. He came on as a substitute in the 62nd minute in their 1-0 win against Ecuador in the 2026 world qualifiers match.
At the age of 17 years, 4 months and 14 days Estevao becomes the fifth youngest player to play for the Selecao replacing Ronaldo ‘the phenomenon’ in the list by 2 months. Only Pele, Edu, Coutinho and Endrick have managed to play for Brazil at a younger age than him.
It is a very big achievement on such a young age to play for your country. After facing a couple of injuries in the past months it was great to see him on the pitch. But Estevao has been on fire for his current side Palmeiras. He scored 3 goals and registered 3 assists in his last five games in all competitions. But unfortunately they have been knocked out of Copa Libertadores a couple of weeks ago.
How good is Estevao?
The 17 year old has built a strong reputation across the South America in the past couple of years. He is considered as one of the exciting talents around the globe. In his breakout season in professional football for Palmeiras he has been on fire.
People are even calling him the ‘Brazilian Messi’ because of his play style. Estevao’s skillful dribbling and electric pace, has caused defenders so much trouble to defend him. He has scored 14 goals and 10 assists in 40 matches in all competitions last season. It is considered a great amount for a winger of such young age.
Estevao always likes to take on defenders to show his ability and never backs off. As per WhoScored he has maintained an average rating of 7.32 in Brasileiro Serie A last season. Estevao is also a very good finisher. Last season he had a xG of 5.06 in the league but he managed to score 6 goals from open play.
Estevao is normally a right winger. But due to his techniques he can even drift across the central areas. Playing like traditional number 10. He has been frequently shifting into the middle space under Abel Ferreira, the Palmeiras manager.
Due to all his talent and versatility top European clubs wanted to sign him this summer, but Chelsea have managed to seal the deal.
The Blues have agreed on a total package worth of £51m to sign the gem. He will come to West London in the summer of 2025 after turning 18 on April of the following year.
Chelsea will be very keen to have Estevao on their side. But for this season they will be monitoring his progression with Palmeiras and will be hoping for a safe and sound season.
Rodrygo to help Estevao grow?
Rodrygo, the Real Madrid ace is planning on to help Estevao and the other younger players in the national team. Though he is himself only 23 years old but he carries a lot of experience. Rodrygo has been one of the most important players for Real Madrid and the Selecao in the past 3 years.
As a result the forward feels it is his duty to help the youngsters grow. After Brazil’s win against Ecuador yesterday by Rodrygo’s goal, he spoke to Lance! in the post match interview.
He said, “You see Estevao at 17, Endrick at 18. So, they are very young boys, so even though I’m young, I can pass on some of this experience to them.”
Brazil’s next game is against Paraguay on Wednesday. Fans would like to see more of Estevao, as he could make his first start for the Selecao.
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