Cole Palmer has made a significant effort to help Estevao Willian feel at home ahead of his highly anticipated move to Chelsea. At just 17, Estevao has been excelling in the Brazilian Serie A with Palmeiras, and Chelsea’s players are eager to play alongside him. He recently revealed that both Palmer and Reece James have reached out to him on social media with encouraging messages.
Estevao’s impressive performances have raised questions about whether he could secure a place in Enzo Maresca’s starting lineup as soon as he joins Chelsea in the summer of 2025. However, there is uncertainty about where he will fit into the team. The £50million teenager has thrived as a winger, contributing to 22 goals in 31 league games this season, but he admitted he feels more comfortable in the No. 10 role.
“I’ve always been a No 10 and I went to the wing to have one-on-ones,” Estevao told ESPN Brasil. “Of course, I respect [my manager’s] decision, I know that I’ve enjoyed it more on the wing, but who knows, maybe in the future I’ll play where I feel more comfortable, which is inside.”
This bold statement could create tension, especially considering Palmer is currently the undisputed first choice for the attacking midfield position at Chelsea. Despite Palmer’s friendly approach online, competition for the No. 10 role may strain their relationship if Estevao challenges for the spot. Estevao will need to impress significantly if he hopes to displace Palmer, who has had an outstanding season with 33 goal contributions last year and 17 (11 goals and 6 assists) in just 15 games this season.
Although Estevao’s numbers aren’t yet comparable, he is still five years younger. No player in the history of the Brazilian top flight aged 17 or younger, including Neymar, has had a more productive season than Estevao in 2024. Neymar himself acknowledged Estevao’s achievement after he broke the record, congratulating him and expressing hope that he would continue to shine.
Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazario also praised Estevao, calling him a talented young player with the potential to become a major star. “He’s kind of like Lamine Yamal. He will soon be a very big star in football. He’s very promising, and at just 17,” he said.
