Willian backs Estevao to be ‘key figure’ at Chelsea

Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.

Former Chelsea winger Willian believes Estevao “has everything it takes to be a key figure” for the Blues.

Estevao joined Chelsea last summer, following a move from Palmeiras, but saw his debut campaign hampered by injuries.

The 19-year-old made 36 appearances across all competitions, scoring eight goals and providing three assists, but struggled with a hamstring injury.

Among Chelsea players last season (not including the Club World Cup), only Pedro Neto completed more dribbles (75) and take-on ending carries (99) than Estevao (58 and 72).

Although his game time could be limited under Xabi Alonso, following the addition of Morgan Rogers, Willian has backed the teenager to be an important player for Chelsea.

“Estevao is a different kind of player,” Willian said.

“He has great quality and a commanding presence. He undoubtedly draws attention and plays an important role in the Chelsea squad.

“He certainly has everything it takes to be a key figure.”

Preparing for Sunday’s challenge.  pic.twitter.com/vLj9mFY0fM

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) September 4, 2026

Chelsea face Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday, and another Brazilian who could be a big factor in the outcome is Bruno Guimaraes.

He joined for a reported £75m from Newcastle United and made an appearance off the bench in the Gunners’ 1-0 win over Aston Villa last time out.

“He [Guimaraes] was the guy who ran the midfield for that team [Newcastle], and he’s certainly coming in to add even more to the Arsenal squad,” Willian added.

“Arsenal has a good team with a lot of quality.”

Arsenal are unbeaten in their last nine Premier League matches against Chelsea (W6 D3), their best unbeaten run against the Blues since a run of 19 between 1995 and 2005.

Chelsea have lost their last four away Premier League games against Arsenal by an aggregate score of 11-2. Their last win there was in August 2021, a 2-0 victory.

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