Chelsea’s lineup is difficult to predict so early in the season, but Enzo Maresca has hinted at one player being given more time before assuming a starting role.
Manchester United are next up for Enzo Maresca’s side, who will be looking for their first win at Old Trafford in 12 years.
They will be hoping to capitalise on what is a low point for the Manchester club.
We have predicted the Chelsea lineup ahead of the weekend’s action, and one of our omissions seems to have been confirmed by Maresca in Friday’s pre-match press conference.
Enzo Maresca’s comments on Estevao suggest he won’t start vs Man United
Estevao Willian has announced himself at Chelsea with his performances this season.
Still a raw talent, he has looked dangerous in the Chelsea front line since arriving at Stamford Bridge this summer.
The 18-year-old appears ahead of schedule in terms of ability to play in the Premier League, but Maresca doesn’t want to rush it..
He says: “Estevao can be great in all of the attacking positions. His talent is very good, he is a top player, but he is 18. He needs time.”
Now that Cole Palmer is back in the lineup, there is no need to force Estevao in. Chelsea have a plethora of attacking talent, including Alejandro Garnacho, who could feature against his former club.
But if he does start on the bench, you would expect an appearance for the young winger in the latter stages of the game.
Estevao will be a Chelsea starter by the end of the season
Anyone who has watched even the briefest Estevao cameo can recognise that this is a special talent.
But even Estevao realises there are areas for improvement. The Premier League is a big step up from what the young winger has experienced, and time will be his friend as he attempts to stake his claim for a starting role.
As mentioned, Chelsea have no shortage of attacking options, but this is a different level of talent to some of the more experienced players.
It’s only a matter of time before Estevao raises his level even further, at which point he could well become an indispensable piece in this Chelsea team.
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