Estevao looking to seize chance amid limited Chelsea game time

Estevao looking to seize chance amid limited Chelsea game time

Estevao has insisted that his attention remains on improving his own performances as competition for attacking places at Chelsea continues to restrict his playing time under new head coach Xabi Alonso.

The 19-year-old Brazilian has featured sparingly in the Premier League this season, making just four substitute appearances for a combined 23 minutes. His only starts have come in the Carabao Cup, meaning he has yet to establish the same influence he enjoyed during his breakthrough campaign at Stamford Bridge last season.

Chelsea's attacking options have made regular first-team opportunities difficult to secure. Alonso has largely relied on a front three featuring Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer and new arrival Morgan Rogers. The trio have combined for 10 goals despite Chelsea experiencing an inconsistent beginning to the Spaniard's tenure.

Speaking while away with Brazil, Estevao acknowledged that different managers have different tactical approaches but said his priority is to concentrate on the aspects of his game that are within his control.

"I think every coach has their own way of playing," Estevao said. "Of course, we work every day, I give my best every day and that's what I do.

"We have quality players at Chelsea, so what I do is focus on what I can control. I try to give my best in training, when I get an opportunity I try to give my best. It goes day after day."

The winger arrived at Chelsea from Palmeiras in 2025 and quickly became one of the standout positives of an otherwise disappointing campaign for the club.

Among his most memorable moments were a stoppage-time winner against reigning Premier League champions Liverpool and a spectacular individual goal during Chelsea's 3-0 Champions League victory over Barcelona.

Estevao finished his first season with eight goals in 36 appearances across all competitions, performances that quickly made him a popular figure among Chelsea supporters.

His opportunities have been harder to come by this season, however, with Chelsea producing much of their attacking threat despite their defensive struggles. Alonso's side have scored 18 goals in seven matches, while Pedro, Palmer and Rogers have emerged as prominent attacking figures.

Estevao's latest appearance came in Chelsea's 3-0 defeat by Brentford last Friday. He was introduced with only three minutes of normal time remaining, when Chelsea were already 2-0 behind, before Brentford added another goal.

Rather than focusing on his limited involvement, Estevao says he will continue working and wait for further opportunities.

"I try to seize every opportunity I have, I try to control everything I can and I leave it in God's hands and I trust myself a lot too," he said.

READ MORE: From 10 wasted years to self-sustainability: Mkhize on SAFA eThekwini’s turnaround