Chelsea have been urged to consider allowing Estevao Willian to leave in January after the Brazilian teenager struggled for regular playing time under new head coach Xabi Alonso.

According to a report by Football London on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, former Chelsea wingers Scott Sinclair and Pat Nevin believe the 19-year-old needs more minutes to continue his development, with his role at Stamford Bridge reduced since Alonso took charge in the summer.

Estevao joined Chelsea from Palmeiras in 2025 and enjoyed an encouraging debut season, making 43 appearances across all competitions, scoring eight goals and providing four assists.

However, the youngster has found opportunities harder to come by this season. He is yet to start a Premier League match under Alonso and has managed just 154 minutes in the league and Carabao Cup combined.

Alonso's preferred 3-4-2-1 formation has contributed to the situation, with Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer occupying the two attacking midfield positions.

Pedro Neto has also been deployed regularly as an advanced right-wing-back, leaving Estevao struggling to establish himself in the starting XI.

Sinclair, who experienced six loan spells during his Chelsea career, believes the teenager must prioritise regular football.

"As a young player, all you want to do is play football," Sinclair told Andy's Bet Club.

He added: "Only Estevao can decide what is best for him, but because he is so young, getting consistent game time is essential and having been in the same position, I’d say he should go and play."

Former Chelsea winger Nevin also suggested that a move away could become necessary if the situation does not improve.

The Scot stressed that young players need substantial competitive experience to fulfil their potential, particularly those expected to become established first-team stars.

"By the time you're 20, 21, you kind of want a couple of hundred," Nevin said, referring to the number of games a player should aim to accumulate.

He acknowledged Chelsea's reasons for keeping Estevao, noting that injuries to Palmer or Rogers could create an opening for the Brazilian.

However, he warned against allowing a talented youngster to spend too much time on the bench. "So I wouldn't be shocked if he looks elsewhere to get a game," Nevin said.