According to a report by footballTransfers on Thursday October 29, 2026, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has acknowledged that Willian Estevão is unhappy with his limited playing time after leaving the teenager on the bench throughout Wednesday’s Carabao Cup tie against Liverpool.

Chelsea were knocked out at Anfield after a 1-1 draw and a 6-5 defeat in the penalty shoot-out. Morgan Rogers scored for the Blues during the match, but Estevão did not feature.

The 19-year-old has had few opportunities in the Premier League this season, playing just 47 minutes across Chelsea’s first eight league matches.

His starts have come in the Carabao Cup, making his absence from the starting line-up against Liverpool notable.

Asked about the winger’s situation, Alonso admitted that he understands the player wants more minutes. “He could be happier. He wants to play,” the Chelsea manager said. “I’m sure Estevão will have his moment; it is my responsibility.”

Alonso also pointed to the intensity of English football and said the season would provide opportunities for the whole squad.

Chelsea began the Liverpool match with Pedro Neto, Rogers and Danny Welbeck in attack. Substitutions were also affected by the physical demands of the game, with Malo Gusto suffering cramps.

Estevão’s situation presents Alonso with a difficult balancing act. The young Brazilian is valued for his potential, but he is still competing with established players for a place in the team. Neto, in particular, has started the campaign strongly, scoring four goals in 11 appearances.

Chelsea’s lack of European fixtures may further limit opportunities to rotate the squad. With fewer midweek games, Alonso has fewer chances to give fringe players regular minutes while maintaining his preferred line-up.

For now, Estevão may have to be patient. But with the January transfer window approaching and reports linking him with interest from Paris Saint-Germain, keeping the forward engaged will be an important task for Alonso.