Estevao stars as Enzo Maresca drives Chelsea's new Brazilian recruitment

Chelsea completed a deal with Palmeiras in 2025 worth a package rising to around 51 million pounds, and the winger linked up with the squad after the FIFA Club World Cup earlier this year. 

The 18-year-old has made an immediate impact, scoring four goals in all competitions by mid-November 2025, including two in the Champions League.

Widely regarded in Brazil as the country's most exciting attacking talent since Neymar, Estevao has adapted smoothly to life at Stamford Bridge.

Maresca recently said it was "a privilege" to work with the youngster, who has already become a key option in Chelsea's forward line. Supporters have called for him to start more regularly, but Maresca has maintained a careful approach to his integration, emphasizing the need for time to adapt from South America.

The teenager, however, has stressed how strong their relationship is.

"Maresca is an incredible person and human being that tried to bring out the best of me," Estevao said in an interview shared on X. "There are difficulties with English but he always speaks to me in Spanish.

"He gives me guidance in Spanish, so I'm happy with that because he wants the best for me."

Even when the head coach leaves him out of the starting XI, Estevao has said Maresca explains his decisions clearly, helping him stay focused and patient.

Chelsea's recent recruitment from Brazil is paying off across the pitch. Joao Pedro, signed from Brighton in July 2025, has delivered four goals and three assists in the first eleven Premier League matches of the season, while also scoring three times in three Club World Cup fixtures.

Midfielder Andrey Santos, now 21, has continued his steady development, contributing one goal and three assists from thirteen appearances in all competitions despite fierce competition for minutes.

With Estevao's rapid rise and Maresca's trust, Chelsea appear to have found a new Brazilian core driving their push on multiple fronts this season.

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