Home / Sports / No January exit for Chelsea's Estêvão, says Alonso
No January exit for Chelsea's Estêvão, says Alonso
31 Oct
Summary
- Estêvão must adapt to manager's style for more game time.
- Alonso rules out any January loan move for the player.
- Player has started only twice in 11 games this season.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has definitively ruled out any January transfer discussions for promising youngster Estêvão Willian. The Brazilian has found consistent game time challenging this season, starting only twice in 11 appearances across all competitions. Despite the player's apparent frustration, Alonso insists Estêvão remains in his plans.
Alonso explained that Estêvão, like all players, must adapt to the team's style of play, both with and without the ball, to earn a regular place. The manager highlighted the high demands of the Premier League, especially for a teenager stepping up from another league. He stressed that while mistakes are part of the learning process, developing competitiveness and making the right decisions are crucial for the player's progression.
The 19-year-old winger, who joined Chelsea from Palmeiras last year for a significant fee, has struggled for minutes, particularly in the Premier League, playing a total of 47 minutes. While Alonso acknowledged the player's desire to be on the pitch, he maintained that every player must be prepared for their opportunity, and he takes responsibility for his selection decisions.