Gerrard says 19-year-old Estevao creates tactical headache for Chelsea boss Alonso
The Brazilian winger’s direct style and hunger to shoot have won praise from Steven Gerrard, complicating selection decisions for manager Xabi Alonso.
By Oliver Bennett ·
For Chelsea supporters watching the 19-year-old Brazilian winger, the primary concern is no longer whether Estevao performs, but who he displaces from the starting lineup. The young player’s recent displays have introduced a layer of complexity to the squad’s forward line, forcing manager Xabi Alonso to weigh immediate impact against long-term tactical balance.
The situation intensified following last Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge, which marked Estevao’s first start in the Premier League this season. His performance in that match followed a period of frustration for the winger, who was reportedly unhappy with his limited playing time after being left on the bench against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup the previous week.
Steven Gerrard, a former Liverpool captain and current pundit, identified this specific issue as a challenge for Alonso. Speaking on The Overlap, Gerrard praised Estevao’s direct approach on the right flank, noting that the player’s willingness to take shots distinguishes him from peers who often seek an extra pass before firing. Gerrard highlighted a moment where Estevao whipped a shot that required a fine save from the United goalkeeper, contrasting this with Liverpool’s tendency to overthink attacking options.
“He’s exciting. He’s great to watch,” Gerrard said. “I really like that he’s very direct. I like that he’s hungry to get shots off.” He noted that Estevao’s desire to impress the manager is evident in his play, particularly when he chooses to shoot rather than slow the game down to find a more perfect passing option.
The selection dilemma will sharpen as veteran winger Joao Pedro returns from injury. Gerrard pointed out that while Pedro Neto is also a talented player, the squad’s structure means not all high-performing attackers can occupy the front four simultaneously. With Estevao having cemented his status through his recent form, Alonso must now decide how to integrate him alongside other established options without disrupting the team’s chemistry.
Estevao’s trajectory has shifted from a fringe option to a central figure in Chelsea’s attacking plans. His ability to generate chances through directness has drawn immediate praise from pundits and fans alike, setting the stage for a competitive dynamic within the squad as the season progresses.
