Xabi Alonso insisted Estevao "will have his moment" at Chelsea after struggling for minutes so far in 2026-27.
Estevao enjoyed a positive debut campaign with Chelsea last term, scoring eight goals and providing three assists in 36 appearances before his season was cut short by injury.
However, the 19-year-old has been limited to just 172 minutes across eight appearances this season, with only two of those coming as a starter.
He has yet to directly contribute to a goal in 2026-27, attempting seven shots, creating six chances and completing five of his 14 dribbles.
Estevao featured heavily for Brazil in the international break, but has been limited to two substitute appearances in Chelsea's four games since.
He was an unused substitute in their EFL Cup defeat to Liverpool on Wednesday, despite Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro both being unavailable for the fixture, prompting questions about his lack of playing time.
"I understand his situation and that he could be happier for sure," Alonso said about Estevao.
"Every player wants to play, wants to be part of the team. We have had some intense games and there will be moments for everything.
"I'm sure Estevao will have his moment. It's my responsibility, and we need to deal with that."
Estevao's next opportunity for potential minutes will come on Saturday, when Chelsea host struggling Manchester United in the Premier League.
The Blues will also face Sunderland before the November international break.
liabklnru
0
I wish to get Alonso's social media handle
Tuobnotu
2
Alonso is selective. Any coach whose team selection is not based on performances but personal interest is not a good coach. Alonso is not good for our Chelsea. He refuses to use William even when his team is failing, and William is the solution he still decides not to because he has personal issues that the public is yet to know. we brought him in to play, not to collect free money.
Yoyabceipr
0
You should pack your bag and get out from my club
yazbceimpt
0
Give this guy a chance with immediate effects
lenabdlo
0
when
Caddemnoyz
0
stupid Alonzo must go
Mbanoz
0
Alonso is a racist, he hates Brazilians... check his managerial record with Brazilians in the squad...
Habaioptz
0
alonso ur an idiot
Harkdem
0
estavao is way better than Pedro Neto I don't know why they are not utilizing him more.
Else different work rate
AliJibrinAli92
0
I don't know what Brazilian talent did to alonso
Nandmnops
0
Alonso has lost the respect he enjoyed while coaching at Leverkusen where he developed many young players. On reaching Real Madrid he started disruptive agenda of young players starting with Endrick now experimenting with Estevao in Chelsea. He seems to be Anti-Brazillian. He also had problems with Vinicious and Rodrigo. He is very poor in player management and therefore may not achieve much as a coach. CHELSEA BEWARE!
bunacilpty
1
Xabi Alonso is so stupid for not giving Estavao a chance
AFerwPsS1926
0
Stupid Alonso must go
SamNgundu
1
What is your born with Brazilians Alonso?. This boy is good and he can’t play even in Carrara cup games
zatabcdil
2
estavao is way better than Pedro Neto I don't know why they are not utilizing him more.
Yorokiri
3
Alonso deserves a factory reset slap
Mooadeimrs
2
alonso hates Brazilian