Estevao Willian Shines: Outshining Neymar, Debuting for Brazil, and Poised for Chelsea Stardom

Estevao Willian will complete his £56 million ($73m) move to Chelsea in the summer after an exceptional year at Palmeiras. Despite the risks associated with pre-agreed transfers, such as injuries or a decline in form, Estevao's performance remains promising. The Brazilian star is set to join Chelsea next summer after they outbid fierce competitors for his signature in June. At just under 18, Estevao has had a stellar 2024 season in Brazil, showcasing his extraordinary dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring abilities.

He recently said, "My biggest dream is to be the best player in the world. One day I’ll be among the best. But I’m not going to promise or project that I’ll achieve this in a few years. It’ll come naturally." This indicates Chelsea's acquisition of a potentially world-class talent.

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Estevao broke records by becoming the most productive under-17 player in Brazil's Serie A since Neymar, with 18 league goal contributions this season. Despite a hamstring issue in September, he continues to impress, ranking joint-second in the scoring charts with 10 goals.

Estevao's rising fame in Brazil led to his first call-up to the senior national team for September's internationals. He made his debut against Ecuador, completing all 12 passes and helping secure a 1-0 victory. Balancing football with his studies, Estevao demonstrates maturity beyond his years, committed to both his education and professional career.

Chelsea plans to integrate Estevao into their first-team setup immediately upon his arrival in July 2025, showing great faith in his potential. Despite intense competition for positions at Stamford Bridge, Estevao looks forward to the challenge. He believes in Chelsea's vision for his role as an attacking midfielder and is eager to prove his worth alongside top talents.

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Confident in his trajectory, Estevao is determined not to let past comparisons to other highly-rated prospects, like Kevin De Bruyne and Mohamed Salah, affect his journey. "I decided for Chelsea because of their planning. I was very pleased with that. Not just for me, but also for my family. It was the club that believed in me and trusted in my work. I hope I can pay that back," he said. Among the top scorers in Brazil and improving with each game, Estevao is showing world-class potential, ready to fulfill the high expectations placed on him.