‘He could be happier’ – why is Estevao becoming Chelsea’s forgotten man?
Estevao has become a peripheral figure at Chelsea, making only two starts this season and receiving no minutes in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup defeat by Liverpool. His reduced role matters because the 19-year-old was once celebrated for scoring a late winner against Liverpool, but he has yet to establish himself under new manager Xabi Alonso.
He has played 172 minutes this season, with 125 coming in two earlier cup ties, and has not started any of Chelsea’s eight Premier League matches under Alonso. Alonso said Estevao wants to play and may be unhappy, but argued that the forward is adapting to the physical intensity of English football. Pedro Neto’s strong form on the right, Estevao’s preferred position, has also limited his chances.
In short
- Estevao has made just two starts for Chelsea this season.
- Alonso says the young forward is still adapting to English football.
- Pedro Neto’s form has reduced opportunities on the right.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Alonso can reasonably argue that easing Estevao into the side protects a young player still adapting to the pace and physical demands of English football. With Pedro Neto performing well in Estevao’s preferred position, selecting Neto may currently give Chelsea the best chance of winning while allowing Estevao time to develop and earn a larger role.
The case against
Estevao’s limited minutes, including being left unused in a high-profile cup defeat, make it reasonable to question whether Chelsea are giving a highly rated young player enough meaningful chances to adapt. Regular opportunities could build his confidence and experience, while prolonged marginalisation risks stalling his development and leaving him dissatisfied.