Chelsea starlet Estevao is suffering and does not understand why he has been sidelined at Stamford Bridge. Friends of the youngster revealed he feels trapped in a club crisis, leaving him really disappointed and determined not to become a reserve player.
While Estevao plans to prove new boss Xabi Alonso wrong, Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti voiced concerns regarding his limited usage by the Blues.
The teenager became a fan favourite after arriving from Palmeiras for £54million, scoring eight goals and adding three assists in 36 appearances last term. However, the 19-year-old winger has played just 163 minutes this season under Alonso, with both of his starts coming in the Carabao Cup.
After a late appearance against Spurs, he remained an unused substitute when Chelsea lost to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup. A close friend shared that Estevao is experiencing the first real crisis of his professional career and feels unhappy compared to his usual self.
Despite these issues, Alonso dismissed the possibility of a January exit. The manager stated that the season is long and everyone will get their moments to play.
Injuries hampered Estevao during his debut campaign, causing him to miss 24 games including the World Cup due to a severe hamstring tear. Although he understood needing a careful return from injury, he now struggles with his reduced status under Alonso.
Alonso acknowledged that the player could be happier with his playing time, which stems from the arrival of Morgan Rogers for £117m and a tactical preference for a back three using wing-backs like Pedro Neto. Ancelotti included Estevao in the squad to face Japan and Singapore, but admitted his worry over the lack of club action.
Estevao insists he wants to fight for his place and win titles at Stamford Bridge rather than run away to another club. A former Palmeiras staff member confirmed that the player loves London and Chelsea, and his frustration simply stems from wanting to play.
