Xabi Alonso kept Estêvão on the bench for all of Chelsea's Carabao Cup defeat at Liverpool. The head coach has since admitted the 19-year-old is not content, which puts the focus on whether he plays against Manchester United.

Estêvão was one of nine Chelsea substitutes named for the trip to Anfield.

His absence stood out because two of Chelsea’s main attackers were missing. Cole Palmer was suspended after his red card against Tottenham. João Pedro was out with a thigh injury. Danny Welbeck led the line instead, with Pedro Neto and Morgan Rogers either side of him.

Before the tie, Alonso said anyone in the squad could play. He made four changes from the side beaten by Tottenham the previous Saturday. Estêvão was not one of the players brought into the team.

Rogers put Chelsea ahead with a 40th-minute penalty. Cody Gakpo equalised from the spot three minutes later. Liverpool had made seven changes of their own.

Alonso tells doubters to trust him over Estêvão

Chelsea’s travelling supporters chanted Estêvão’s name for much of the match. He was warming up in front of them as they sang.

Alonso did not dodge the issue. He said he understood the player’s situation and that Estêvão “could be happier for sure”. He added that he was sure the winger would get his moment. He also said that dealing with the situation was his own responsibility.

The head coach told reporters to trust him. He said Estêvão would play his part in what he called a long season.

The winger’s output last season gives supporters reason to want him involved. He made 12 Premier League starts and scored eight goals in all competitions under Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, ESPN reported. He then missed the 2026 World Cup with a hamstring injury.

Manchester United visit offers Estêvão his next opening

The next chance comes quickly. When United last came to Stamford Bridge, on 18 April 2026, they left with a 1-0 win.

Palmer’s return from suspension would add competition in attack rather than ease it. Even so, Alonso’s words at Anfield have raised the stakes for his team selection. Supporters who sang for Estêvão will now judge the promise by his minutes.

Alonso is due to hold his pre-match press conference on Friday.