Estevão Willian has been nothing short of sensational since his summer arrival at Chelsea — but as excitement continues to build around the 18-year-old Brazilian, expectations must be carefully managed.
The teenage winger has already lit up Stamford Bridge with flashes of brilliance, none more so than during last weekend’s crucial victory over Liverpool. Introduced with just 15 minutes of normal time remaining, Estevão turned the game on its head, delivering a stunning stoppage-time winner that sent the home crowd into delirium.
It was the latest reminder of his enormous potential, and understandably, Chelsea fans are clamouring to see more of him. However, manager Enzo Maresca is treading a careful line — balancing the desire to unleash his young star with the need to protect him during the early stages of his Premier League journey.
Measured Management
So far, Estevão has featured in six of Chelsea’s seven league matches, logging 265 minutes out of a possible 630. He has started four times and appeared twice from the bench, with Maresca opting to rotate his wide options given the depth of talent available.
The Brazilian has also made brief cameos in both of Chelsea’s Champions League fixtures and remained an unused substitute in the Carabao Cup win over Lincoln City. Maresca has repeatedly praised Estevão’s talent and temperament, but his approach is clear — protect the player first, spotlight second.
During the club’s pre-season tour, Maresca explained why the youngster needs time and space to adapt:
“We need to pay a little bit more attention, because first of all, he’s from the other part of the world and also he’s very, very young,” the Chelsea boss said. “He needs to adapt. Hopefully we can give him minutes so he’s happy, but the biggest mistake we can make is to put him under pressure.”
Maresca’s words now seem prophetic, as the club manage the delicate balance between opportunity and overload.
Lessons from Elsewhere
Chelsea’s cautious handling of Estevão mirrors growing concerns across Europe about young players being overworked too soon. A prime example is Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, who at just 18 has already played nearly 8,000 senior minutes in two seasons — a figure many consider unsustainable for a player still developing physically.
Maresca, known for his detailed and developmental approach, appears determined not to let the same fate befall Estevão. The Italian coach understands that nurturing the winger’s confidence and allowing him to adjust to the Premier League’s intensity will be key to unlocking his long-term potential.
A Star in the Making
Chelsea supporters have every reason to be excited. Estevão’s flair, composure, and maturity already hint at a player capable of becoming one of the Premier League’s most electrifying talents. Yet, as Maresca and his staff know well, true greatness often takes patience.
If managed correctly, the Blues’ teenage sensation could follow in the footsteps of Brazil’s finest exports — not by burning bright too early, but by building a career that lasts.
For now, Chelsea’s careful approach looks not only sensible but essential — ensuring Estevão Willian continues to thrill, without the weight of the world on his young shoulders.
