Enzo Maresca backs Chelsea teen Estevao for future Ballon d'Or glory

The 18-year-old Brazilian joined Chelsea from Palmeiras this summer for 29 million pounds after breaking Neymar's record for the most goal involvements in Brazil's Serie A before turning 18. Fittingly, his final Palmeiras match came against Chelsea in the Club World Cup - where he scored before Maresca's side went on to win the tournament.

Since his arrival, Estevao has become an instant favourite at Stamford Bridge, catching attention with a late Premier League winner against Liverpool and becoming the Blues' youngest Champions League scorer in a 5â-1 victory over Ajax. He's also made an impression for Brazil, scoring on debut against Chile and twice more versus South Korea.

Maresca admits the teenager's adaptation has exceeded expectations.

"He surprised us a lot by how easily he settled," he told ESPN Brasil. "He's very young, but his family supports him and he's had help from Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos. He's happy, he wants to play football - even if he still thinks it's cold here!"

The Italian coach is confident Estevao's potential has no ceiling. "I have no doubt he can fight for the Ballon d'Or or The Best award," Maresca said. "He just needs to focus on improving. If he keeps learning and working, the awards will come by themselves."

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