The winger, Estevao, is experiencing significant disappointment due to a lack of playing time under Xabi Alonso and may consider leaving Chelsea in the January transfer window if the situation doesn't improve.
Chelsea won the race for the Brazilian talent over Real Madrid and Barcelona in May 2024, agreeing to a deal which could rise to £51 million with bonuses, before Estevao officially joined the club in August 2025. Despite facing injuries in his debut season, he showcased his potential, making 36 appearances across all competitions, scoring 8 goals and providing 4 assists.
However, this season has proven much more challenging for the young winger. Xabi Alonso's tactical shift towards using wing-backs rather than traditional wingers has left Estevao struggling for minutes, often only seeing action as a late substitute. Things reached a low point in Chelsea's recent 0-2 defeat against Tottenham, where another 19-year-old talent, Geovany Quenda, was preferred to start.
Future prospects and club stance
If Estevao's situation does not improve by January, he and his representatives are prepared to reassess his future and discuss the possibility of a move for regular game time. However, Chelsea's hierarchy is keen on retaining him, reflecting a commitment to his long-term development.
Former Chelsea player Pat Nevin has previously suggested that the club may not be the best fit for nurturing players of Estevao's profile, making it difficult for him to achieve the stability he needs.
