Maresca Advocates Patience for Chelsea’s Estevao Amid Comparisons to Yamal

omidbasir- Chelsea’s head coach, Enzo Maresca, has sought to temper comparisons between 18-year-old rising star Estevao and Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal as the two prepare to face each other in a highly anticipated Champions League match.

Estevao has made a remarkable impression in his debut season in England, contributing both goals and assists despite limited playing time. Chelsea is taking a measured approach to his integration into Premier League football. His dynamic dribbling and innate talent have quickly made him a favorite among fans, and he heads into the match against Barcelona in excellent form, having performed well for both club and country.

Maresca has consistently commended Estevao for his maturity and eagerness to learn, but he cautioned that drawing parallels with more seasoned players could impose undue pressure on the young talent as he acclimates to European football. With four goals and one assist in 16 appearances, the Brazilian has already shown he can make a significant impact in high-stakes matches when utilized effectively. Chelsea views him as a vital component of their long-term strategy, but Maresca insists that his development should be gradual.

“Estevao is already playing at a high level and starting games for Brazil,” Maresca remarked to reporters ahead of the Barcelona clash. “He is very young and undoubtedly has areas for improvement, but we are thrilled with his progress. It is exciting for football fans to witness talents like Estevao, Lamine Yamal, and Pedri. We are grateful to have Estevao in our squad.”

“Estevao will undeniably be an important player for this club in the future. The key for him now is to enjoy his football, maintain happiness, and focus on self-improvement rather than competing with others,” Maresca emphasized, underlining the importance of shielding him from external pressures. “He needs to strive to be better than himself each day, work hard, and improve, and he will undoubtedly become a top player for Chelsea.”

The Chelsea manager also pointed out that comparisons to Yamal are both unfair and premature, given their divergent career paths. Yamal’s impressive record of 31 goals and 42 assists across 118 appearances for Barcelona positions him at a more advanced stage in his career, whereas Estevao is just beginning his journey in Europe. Maresca concluded by reaffirming that enjoyment, learning, and steady progress are crucial to Estevao’s growth.

Estevao has emerged as one of the standout stories of Chelsea’s season, arriving from Palmeiras with significant expectations yet promptly showcasing his ability to meet the demands of elite football. His four goals and one assist only partially reflect his contributions, as his speed, creativity, and audacity have injected much-needed energy into Chelsea’s attack. His recent international form, highlighted by five goals in his last six matches for Brazil, further enhances his profile as a potential future star for the Selecao.

The winger’s transition from Palmeiras to England illustrates why Maresca advocates for patience. At his previous club, he netted 27 goals and provided 15 assists in 83 appearances, evolving into one of South America’s premier young prospects before Chelsea brought him on board. Despite the excitement surrounding his arrival, Maresca recognizes the hurdles young wingers face in the Premier League and aims to protect Estevao from comparisons that could impede his development.

Conversely, Yamal’s remarkable rise at Barcelona has raised the bar for teenage talents. He has shattered several age records and firmly established himself as a pivotal player in both La Liga and the Champions League, marking a distinct trajectory even among elite prospects.

Estevao is anticipated to participate against Barcelona, though Maresca may continue to manage his playing time cautiously due to the fixture’s intensity. The club’s long-term strategy is to gradually enhance his role as he adapts physically and tactically to English and European football. A stellar performance on the Champions League stage could further elevate his standing, but Chelsea remains committed to a steady and sustainable approach to his development.

Meanwhile, Yamal is likely to feature prominently for Hansi Flick’s side as the Catalan team begins to welcome back players from injury ahead of a challenging winter schedule.