Chelsea reportedly ‘frustrated’ with Estevao’s actions
For a long time, it looked like Estevao could do no wrong. He scored against Chelsea at the Club World Cup to give everybody a glimpse of what he was capable of. That was followed by a bright start to the campaign. The goal against FC Barcelona was supposed to be the moment he arrived. As Lamine Yamal watched on helplessly, it was another wonderkid guiding his team to a 3-0 victory.
Unfortunately, it has all gone wrong since then. Estevao has spent the second half of the season largely out injured. And the latest issue seems to have caused a difference of opinion between the club and the player’s camp.
The injury took place early in the game against Manchester United. Estevao pulled up while through on goal. While he still had enough in the tank to get his shot off, the youngster had to be subbed off immediately after that. We have not seen him in action since, and he has already been ruled out for the rest of the season.
Now, his World Cup chances are gone as well, as he was not named in Brazil’s preliminary squad. According to Globo Esporte (via Sport Witness), Chelsea continue to believe surgery would be the best route. But Estevao and the professionals around him still do not agree, even though a place at the World Cup is no longer in question. The Brazilian winger’s entourage remain convinced conservative treatment is the correct option and they see no need for an operation.
Chelsea said to be ‘frustrated’ with the situation
It is easy to see why Chelsea do not want to take any risks when it comes to Estevao. The last thing he needs this early in his career is constant muscle injuries.
The headline describes Chelsea as ‘frustrated’ with the situation. Of course, Estevao’s captain at Stamford Bridge will know all about that. Perhaps he should ask Reece James for advice if he has not already.
Chelsea’s medical team have done a decent job when it comes to James and have succeeded in keeping him fit for the most part over the past year. Yes, he did return from an injury just recently. But considering how often he was getting injured at one point, the load management strategy has certainly worked.
What does the future hold for Estevao?
Estevao has already dealt with a few injury problems this season. One can only hope that this does not end up becoming the norm.
The Brazilian has all the talent you can ask for. But he needs to remain fit in order to continue his development. Over the years, we have seen plenty of promising careers get derailed due to injuries.
Chelsea fans will be hoping that Estevao will be able to put his injury problems behind him from next season. If Xabi Alonso does end up becoming the manager of the club, it will be very interesting to see how he goes about trying to get the best out of the Brazilian youngster, especially if he tries to play with three at the back.
Sourav Mahanty has covered teams like Chelsea, Celtic, Real Madrid, Manchester United, PSG and more over a career that has now lasted a decade.
His work has been featured on Sports Illustrated, Athlon Sports, SB Nation, FanSided, The Sportster and aggregated through Bleacher Report and NewsNow.
Outside of football, he is also interested in basketball, cricket and professional wrestling.
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