Estevao: Chelsea's Rising Star or a Forgotten Talent?

Brazilian forward Estevao has only started twice this season across all competitions. Just a year ago, he was the talk of the town after scoring a dramatic winner against Liverpool, securing a memorable victory for Chelsea. Fast forward to now, and Estevao is becoming a forgotten figure under manager Xabi Alonso, as he finds it tough to break into the starting lineup. The 19-year-old joined Chelsea from Palmeiras last summer, but his presence was notably absent during Wednesday night's Carabao Cup exit at Anfield. After Chelsea initially took the lead through Morgan Rogers, they failed to capitalize, allowing Cody Gakpo to equalize for Liverpool. What was particularly troubling for Estevao was not being considered as his teammates pushed for a late winner. During a crucial moment in the second half, Alonso opted for a triple substitution but left Estevao on the bench, opting instead for Emanuel Emegha, who had yet to play for the Blues since joining from Strasbourg. This latest match was just another reminder of Estevao's struggles. Under Alonso, he has not made a single start in the eight Premier League matches played this season. So far, he has clocked just 172 minutes on the pitch, with the majority of those coming in earlier rounds of the EFL Cup. In fact, during the thrilling 6-3 win against Luton Town, one of his two starts, he was substituted at halftime while the team was trailing. After the defeat to Liverpool, Alonso explained his decision to leave Estevao out, suggesting that the Brazilian is still adjusting to the demanding nature of English football. "We started with Pedro [Neto], Morgan [Rogers] and Danny Welbeck, and the game had very intense moments," Alonso said. "We knew it was going to be physical. The season is long, and there will be chances for everyone." When pressed about Estevao directly, he acknowledged the young forward's frustration: "He could be happier. He wants to play. I'm sure Estevao will have his moment. It is my responsibility to manage that." One significant factor contributing to Estevao's limited playing time is the impressive form of Pedro Neto. Just a few months back, Neto was rumored to be leaving Chelsea after two years, but he stayed and has since earned Alonso's trust, starting seven of the eight Premier League matches this season. Neto's success in the right-wing position, which is Estevao's preferred spot, has left the young Brazilian with limited opportunities. Alonso's tactical setup often sees Neto utilized as a right-sided wing-back, a role that requires greater defensive capabilities than Estevao may currently provide. Despite Chelsea's attacking prowess this season, featuring players like Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer, and Rogers, Estevao's absence from the pitch against Liverpool was glaring. With Palmer suspended and Joao Pedro injured, many were left wondering why Estevao didn't see any action. Former Crystal Palace forward Clinton Morrison expressed his disbelief, stating, "How Estevao has not got on the pitch tonight, I do not know. He must be thinking, 'What do I have to do?' It’s baffling given the injuries to two key players." As the season progresses, Estevao will be eager to find his footing at Stamford Bridge and regain the form that once made him the talk of the Premier League.