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According to a report by Metro on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin has suggested that Estevao Willian should consider leaving Stamford Bridge in January if he continues to struggle for regular playing time under manager Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea signed the Brazilian teenager from Palmeiras in 2025 after competing with several top European clubs for his signature. The winger arrived in England with high expectations following his impressive performances in Brazilian football.
Estevao scored eight goals in 36 appearances last season, showing the attacking quality that convinced Chelsea to invest heavily in his future. However, his development has been carefully managed since his arrival, with former managers Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior overseeing his progress.
His situation has reportedly become more difficult since Alonso took charge. The Spanish manager's preferred 3-4-2-1 formation has limited Estevao's opportunities, and the 19 year old has yet to start a Premier League match under him this season.
Competition for attacking positions has also increased, with Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers among the players fighting for places. This has raised concerns about whether Estevao will receive enough playing time to continue developing at Chelsea.
Nevin believes the youngster has exceptional talent but has questioned whether Stamford Bridge is the right place for him to reach his full potential.
Speaking to CasinoHawks, the former Chelsea winger praised Estevao's ability but expressed concern about the pressure and competition facing young players at the club. He suggested that the crowded squad could make it difficult for emerging talents to secure regular opportunities.
Nevin believes a move to a club where Estevao could play more often might help him gain valuable experience. He identified Spain as a possible destination, while France and Germany could also offer suitable opportunities. Paris Saint-Germain was mentioned as one potential option.
However, finding a suitable club within the Premier League could prove challenging because of the financial demands involved in signing a player of Estevao's profile.
Despite the speculation, Alonso has indicated that Estevao remains part of his plans. The Chelsea manager recently said the winger was feeling better after recovering from an injury and suggested that he would receive more opportunities as the season progressed.
Alonso also stressed the differences between international football and the demands of the Premier League, explaining that the coaching staff would continue to manage the youngster's development carefully.
Chelsea are scheduled to face Everton on Saturday, giving Alonso another chance to assess his attacking options and decide how best to involve Estevao in the coming weeks.