Estevao has found himself largely sidelined since Xabi Alonso's appointment at Chelsea. The 19-year-old Brazilian has played a mere 23 minutes in the league this season, but he isn't voicing any dissatisfaction with his current standing.
Last season, Estevao made a significant impact following his move from Palmeiras for £51 million. However, competition for places in Chelsea's attack has intensified, with him vying for a spot alongside Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, and Joao Pedro.
Brian King, a former scout for Aston Villa, Tottenham, and Everton, believes that Alonso needs to implement a rotation strategy to ensure Estevao doesn’t suffer from a lack of playing time.
King commented on Estevao's approach to the situation:
It seems he’s handling this like a seasoned professional. He says he’ll train hard, and when his number is called, he’ll go out and do his best.
It’s not often you come across a player with such a mindset. He’s a really interesting prospect. In my view, Chelsea needs to rotate these four forwards.
Currently, he’s up against Palmer, Rogers, and Joao Pedro – all of whom are solid and much more experienced players.
Estevao has immense potential. He’s definitely a gem.
The absence of European football this season complicates matters for Chelsea. With fewer matches available to distribute playing time, Estevao's opportunities might be restricted to domestic cup fixtures and sporadic appearances in the league.
Despite this, the player hasn’t publicly complained. Estevao has been busy training with the team and even earned a call-up to Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad during the international break, starting against Australia.
Estevao commented on his competitive spirit:
Every coach has their own vision of football. We work every day, and I give my all every time – that's all I can do.
Chelsea has a lot of quality players, so I focus on what I can control. I try to show my best in training.
Estevao's contract with Chelsea runs until 2033, and he’s determined to fight for his place within the squad. However, King insists that in the long run, Alonso will need to find a way to regularly incorporate him into the team.
