Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira has challenged Estevao Willian to showcase his talent to his future Chelsea teammates in their upcoming Club World Cup quarter-final clash. The highly-rated 18-year-old winger is set to join the Blues after the tournament, having agreed to a deal last year. This match presents a unique opportunity for Estevao to demonstrate his abilities against the very team he will soon be joining.
Ferreira has urged Estevao to "give his best for the owners of Chelsea". He hopes that the Chelsea hierarchy will witness firsthand Estevao's potential and quality. The coach believes that this game is a chance for Estevao to "show how good he is". He expects Estevao to give his all in both attack and defense, and perhaps even score a goal as a farewell gift to the Palmeiras fans.
The young Brazilian is already a full Brazil international, and there's a lot of excitement surrounding his arrival at Chelsea. He has broken records previously held by Neymar in the Brazilian league and has received two man-of-the-match awards in three Club World Cup matches. Chelsea views Estevao as a generational talent, with some comparing him to Barcelona's Lamine Yamal.
Estevao himself has expressed his eagerness to join Chelsea, calling it a "dream come true". He is keen to adapt quickly to life in England and secure as much playing time as possible in his first season. He has also been seeking advice from fellow Brazilian players Savinho (Manchester City) and Murillo (Nottingham Forest) about adapting to the Premier League.
While Chelsea have a wealth of attacking options, including Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke and potentially Pedro Neto, Estevao is determined to make his mark. He wants to play as a number ten for Chelsea. Although he may initially play on the right wing, he hopes to eventually play in his preferred central role. Chelsea are also looking to add a versatile forward to their squad, despite Estevao's arrival.
The match holds additional significance as Ferreira has called upon local Philadelphia sports fans to support Palmeiras, given that it falls on July 4th, American Independence Day, against an English team.
Estevao's impending arrival at Chelsea is part of a broader strategy by the club to tap into the South American market. The Blues have also signed Kendry Paez and Andrey Santos. Santos is expected to play a key role in the squad after a successful loan spell at Strasbourg.
Ultimately, the Club World Cup match offers Estevao Willian a platform to demonstrate his skills, determination, and potential to his future club. It is an opportunity to leave a lasting impression on Chelsea and provide a glimpse of what he can bring to Stamford Bridge.