According to a report by Football London on Wednesday October 28, 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has explained why Brazilian youngster Estevao Willian did not feature in the Blues' Carabao Cup fourth-round defeat to Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday.

Despite calls from Chelsea supporters for the teenager to be introduced, Estevao remained on the bench throughout the match as the Blues were eliminated from the competition following a penalty shootout.

Speaking after the game, Alonso explained that the intensity of the contest and the need to manage his players' fitness influenced his decisions. Chelsea also faced fitness concerns involving Moises Caicedo and Malo Gusto, forcing the manager to make changes during the match.

Alonso acknowledged that Estevao might be unhappy with his limited playing time but insisted that the young forward would get opportunities as the season progresses.

"I understand his situation and that he could be happier for sure. Every player wants to play, wants to be part of the team," Alonso said.

He added that the season would be long and expressed confidence that Estevao would have an important role to play.

The Chelsea manager also pointed to the physical demands of English football, noting that Estevao was still working his way back following an injury.

Alonso was further asked why he did not introduce the Brazilian for the penalty shootout. He explained that the match was extremely close and felt it would have been difficult to bring a player straight from the bench into such a high-pressure situation.

Meanwhile, Chelsea's attention has now shifted to the Premier League, with Alonso's side preparing for their upcoming clash against Manchester United.