Estevão Shines on Debut as Chelsea Open Pre-Season with Win Over Bayer Leverkusen
Enzo Maresca’s young Chelsea squad got their pre-season campaign off to the perfect start with a confident 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen at Stamford Bridge. The Blues looked sharp, composed, and full of attacking intent as they strolled to victory in front of their home fans.
It didn’t take long for Chelsea’s new Brazilian sensation to make his mark. On his eagerly anticipated debut, 18-year-old Estevão opened the scoring in the 18th minute, showing excellent awareness to tap into an empty net after Cole Palmer’s clever lobbed effort bounced off the bar. From the very first whistle, the teenager oozed confidence, driving at the heart of Leverkusen’s defence with pace and purpose.
Estevão was Chelsea’s creative spark throughout his 76 minutes on the pitch, gliding across the front line and linking effortlessly with Palmer, who seemed relieved to share the creative burden he carried for much of last season. Such was the Brazilian’s influence that Palmer sought him out at almost every opportunity.
Chelsea fans had plenty to cheer about, but Estevão’s display stood out — a sign that the Blues may have landed one of the Premier League’s brightest emerging stars.
Estêvão Willian vs Bayer Leverkusen ✨💫🇧🇷 #CFC #Chelsea #Estevao pic.twitter.com/6M9eAkMlEv
— Izzy💙💙💙 (@GodstimeOkirigi) August 8, 2025
The win was sealed in stoppage time when substitute João Pedro slotted home from a Genesis Antwi cut-back, capping off a routine yet satisfying start to pre-season.
Defensive Concerns Remain Despite Solid Display
While the result and attacking display offered encouragement, Maresca will still be mindful of defensive concerns heading into the new season. Chelsea are facing an extended spell without Levi Colwill, who underwent ACL surgery earlier this week, and Wesley Fofana remains on the comeback trail from his own long-term injury.
The £37 million arrival of 19-year-old Jorrel Hato from Ajax offers some reinforcement, though the Dutchman is primarily viewed as a full-back option. Hato made his debut in the second half against Leverkusen, slotting in at left-back, but questions remain over depth in central defence.
One potential solution could come from within. Academy prospect Josh Acheampong, who has impressed in training, may find himself with a valuable opportunity to step up and fill the void during pre-season.
Chelsea return to action at Stamford Bridge on Sunday when they take on AC Milan, with fans eager to see more from Estevão and the club’s promising new generation. If the Leverkusen match is anything to go by, the Blues’ blend of youthful energy and Maresca’s tactical vision could make for an exciting season ahead.
Estevão Shines on Debut as Chelsea Open Pre-Season with Win Over Bayer Leverkusen
