Estevao dazzles: Chelsea heading to the top with the young Brazilian star

Estevao Brilla: The New Chelsea Phenomenon Outshining Lamine Yamal

The clash between Chelsea and Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League generated expectations about the duel between young promises. Estevao Willian from Chelsea and Lamine Yamal from Barcelona were the center of attention. However, Tuesday’s match marked a before and after, with Estevao emerging as the star figure. Chelsea’s 3-0 victory was the platform for 18-year-old Estevao to introduce himself to the world with a spectacular goal that overshadowed his young colleague. Despite the defeat, Yamal, also 18 years old, boasts an enviable record: European champion with Spain and two-time LaLiga champion, as well as being runner-up for the Ballon d’Or. His future is promising. The Champions League group stage, with Barcelona in a less favorable position, offers recovery opportunities with affordable matches against Bayer Leverkusen, Copenhagen, and Slavia Prague. The encounter propelled Estevao and Chelsea into the elite of football, allowing fans, who have seen significant changes in the club since the 2021 Champions League victory, to believe in the team’s return to competition.

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Estevao’s potential seems limitless. Those who expected to see Yamal shine with his talent witnessed a memorable moment thanks to the opposing team’s player. Following an own goal by Jules Koundé and the expulsion of Ronald Araujo, Chelsea took advantage of the situation. Reece James assisted Estevao, who made an individual play, surpassing Pau Cubarsí and Alejandro Balde before scoring an impressive goal. The cameras focused on Yamal, who tried to maintain his composure. Estevao celebrated in the corner of the field, while Chelsea’s coach, Enzo Maresca, showed disbelief.

Estevao’s goal reminded me of the one he scored against us in the Club World Cup, a very similar play.

Enzo Maresca

Maresca highlighted the importance of Estevao enjoying himself and developing, avoiding comparisons with figures like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, so as not to put too much pressure on the young player. Estevao became the third player to score in his first three Champions League appearances, joining Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland. His five goals this season equal the sum of all other Premier League players under 18 years old. Chelsea maintained intensity against Barcelona, with several goals disallowed. Enzo Fernández and Marc Cucurella had a great performance. Barcelona regretted a clear missed opportunity by Ferran Torres.

Chelsea proved its worth, exceeding expectations and displaying a game that could turn the team into a real contender.

We haven’t even mentioned Cole Palmer tonight. That’s how well Chelsea played.

Wayne Rooney

Chelsea has protected Estevao, a strategy that should continue. The temptation to field Estevao against Arsenal will be great. Maresca pointed out that the decision on the lineup will depend on the game plan, and Estevao will play when necessary, ensuring that he will have many opportunities due to his talent.

Yamal was substituted, visibly disappointed. Estevao, for his part, received an ovation. The connection between Estevao and Chelsea seems increasingly promising.