Former Chelsea midfielder Pat Nevin has urged Estevao Willian to contemplate a departure from the club as early as January. According to Nevin, the young Brazilian is in danger of hampering his progress due to insufficient game time with Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea secured Estevao's services from Palmeiras in 2025, fending off competition from several top European clubs. In his debut season, he netted eight goals in 36 appearances, yet even then, he struggled to nail down a consistent starting spot.
Under Alonso, things have become even more challenging. The new manager has adopted a 3-4-2-1 formation that has yet to provide Estevao with a clear, regular role. This season, the winger has not started a single match in the Premier League.
To make matters worse, players like Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers are currently ahead of him in the attacking pecking order, garnering Alonso's trust.
Nevin is adamant that the issue doesn't lie with the player's ability but stems from the club's handling of youth talent.
In an interview with CasinoHawks, Nevin stated:
I really like Estevao. I think he is a fantastic player who will definitely become a big star. But not at Chelsea.
I never thought this club was right for him. There isn't the stability for players in his position.
Nevin argues that Chelsea is not providing Estevao with an environment conducive to gradual development.
He explained:
Chelsea isn't the kind of club where you can smoothly develop a player by slowly integrating them into the team.
You get a chance, have one poor game, and suddenly, the next player takes your spot. Before you know it, you're out of the team for ages.
Nevin believes Spain would be a better fit for Estevao, listing other potential destinations like France and Germany.
He added:
I have always thought he should play in Spain. Perhaps in France too. I can picture him at PSG or even in Germany.
There are leagues that suit him much better than the Premier League, and certainly better than Chelsea.
When directly asked about the possibility of Estevao leaving in January, Nevin replied:
Yes, I think he should go. He needs game time, and right now, he isn't getting it.
Meanwhile, Alonso has previously assured that Estevao will get ample opportunities to showcase his talents.
The Chelsea boss remarked:
The season has just begun, and we've only played a few matches. Estevao is feeling much better after his injury, and we've seen him play more with the Brazilian national team.
But the demands of the Premier League are different from international football. We know how useful he can be in certain matches. He will definitely have opportunities and more playing time.
As it stands, there are no confirmed reports of Estevao planning to leave Chelsea. However, his situation remains precarious, with competition fierce in a team aiming for the biggest trophies.
The Blues will next face Everton away on Saturday.
