When Estevão Willian talks about his first months at Chelsea, there’s a sense of reduction combined with pleasure. The 18-year-old arrived from Palmeiras with loads of curiosity about what life in London would really feel like, and his early type has been a significant speaking level. SoftFootball not too long ago lined Maresca’s delight with the teenager, as he claims he’s fortunate to have him. Additionally, his robust showings for Brazil in video games like the 5-0 win over South Korea had been additionally highlighted.
As he mirrored on his journey thus far, he grouped his ideas along with a smile. He admitted that he had spent greater than a 12 months imagining what the transfer could be like and questioning whether or not he would settle simply. His reply was easy, as seen in a submit shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account.
He mentioned:
My begin at Chelsea has been a lot better than I anticipated. I used to be questioning for a 12 months and a half about how it will really feel to be right here, however I’ve tailored rapidly, I’ve been in a position to play, I’ve tailored effectively inside and out of doors of the membership, I’m very completely happy.
His debut got here in opposition to Crystal Palace on August 16, 2025, and though he solely entered the match from the bench, he performed with a freedom that advised he belonged. Just a few days later he began in opposition to West Ham, arrange a objective for Enzo Fernández and left supporters wanting extra. That confidence carried into Europe, the place he grew to become Chelsea’s youngest scorer in a Champions League match throughout the fixture in opposition to Ajax.
Contained in the dressing room, teammates have been impressed. Marc Cucurella identified how calm he appears for somebody his age, whereas Maresca has continued to present him alternatives even in strain conditions. SoftFootball beforehand reported on the evening he helped beat Liverpool with a late winner at Stamford Bridge.
Estevão typically speaks about confidence being the actual basis of his progress. He is aware of soccer in England is quicker and much more bodily than what he grew up with in Brazil, however he additionally feels protected by the gamers round him. Off the pitch, life has been regular. His household is shut by, his sister has settled into faculty, and he has began exploring components of London at any time when coaching permits. He nonetheless misses the meals again house, particularly beans, however says he’s studying to take pleasure in all the pieces town affords.
Nothing about his tone suggests strain. As an alternative, it seems like he’s having fun with every second because it comes. And along with his supervisor already predicting he can be one among Chelsea’s vital gamers for years to come back, his story is barely starting.
