Former Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo has admitted he’s been “surprised” by Brazil star Estevao Willian this season.
Estevao arrived at Chelsea after the Club World Cup, but the Blues agreed a deal for the 18-year-old with Palmeiras, worth up to £51.4m in the summer of 2024.
The teenager has made a brilliant impact at Chelsea, and has already established himself as a firm fan favourite at Stamford Bridge.
Roberto Di Matteo on Estevao
Estevao scored a brilliant goal against Barcelona, and has scored five goals in all competitions, including three in the Champions League.
Enzo Maresca has admitted he feels lucky to manage Estevao, and it seems the Brazil international really does have the world at his feet.
Liam Delap was full of praise for Estevao after the Barcelona game, and there are increasing calls for him to start every game.
Maresca has been careful in how he’s managed his minutes, and Di Matteo has been surprised at how quickly Estevao has adapted.
“It amazes me how mature he is for his age,” he told Sky Sports.
“I watched him in the FIFA Club World Cup when he played there for Palmeiras, but to expect him to come to England, a new country, new language, new environment, and start off so well, that did surprise me a little bit.
“But you meet him and he’s a really humble guy. He’s got a great family behind him, so he’s very settled in London, in Cobham.”
Chelsea youngster has bright future
Estevao has caused opposition defenders problems all season and Di Matteo has backed him to become a top player.
“He is an exciting player,” he added.
“When I first watched him in the States I was like, “wow, this is a special talent”. He’s slowly developing because let’s not forget, he’s still very, very young.
“But he has so many skills and attributes and he’s only going to get better. He’s going to be a top, top player.”
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