Chelsea Star Estêvão Breaks Silence Over Lack of Minutes Under Xabi Alonso
Estêvão has addressed concerns about his limited playing time at Chelsea after returning to the Brazil national team.
The 19-year-old forward has made six appearances for Chelsea this season but has accumulated only 148 minutes, starting just twice.
His reduced role has attracted attention in Brazil, particularly because Estêvão enjoyed significantly more opportunities last season.
The young attacker now finds himself competing for attacking positions in Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea setup, where Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Pedro Neto are also competing for minutes.
Speaking while with Brazil in Australia, Estêvão acknowledged the competition but said his focus remains on the areas he can control.
Rather than allowing the situation to distract him, the Brazilian said he wants to keep working hard in training and make the most of opportunities when they arrive.
His return to international duty also gives him another platform to build rhythm after missing the 2026 World Cup because of a serious thigh injury.
Chelsea have a crowded attacking group, meaning Estêvão’s challenge is not simply getting into the squad but establishing himself within Alonso’s tactical system.
For now, the teenager appears determined to remain patient.
The next phase of the season will show whether that patience eventually translates into a bigger role at Stamford Bridge.