Palmeiras boss Abel Ferreira makes ‘realistic’ claim about opponents Chelsea, uses Estevao Willian example

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Chelsea are getting ready to face Brazilian giants Palmeiras this weekend in a fascinating knockout tie.

The Blues will come up against Palmeiras on Saturday in the quarter-finals of the Club World Cup, with the winners set to face Fluminense or Al Hilal in the semi-finals.

Of course, Estevao Willian is a major talking point going into the quarter-final clash. Even though the 18-year-old wonderkid is about to join Chelsea this summer, he’s still currently a Palmeiras player and is preparing to come up against his future employers.

Estevao has started every match for Palmeiras at the Club World Cup tournament so far. However, many Palmeiras fans argue Estevao should be dropped against Chelsea, largely because of the pressure around the teenage attacker.

• READ MORE: Enzo Maresca gives update on Joao Pedro and a potential Chelsea debut ahead of Palmeiras tie

Abel Ferreira concedes Chelsea are better than Palmeiras

During his pre-match press conference for the quarter-final showdown, Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira has confessed that upcoming opponents Chelsea are stronger than his own team. He used the example of Estevao’s signing as proof of the gulf between the two clubs.

Ferreira said via Globo: “Saying that Chelsea is better than Palmeiras is realistic. They came here and bought our best player (Estêvão), what else do you want me to say?”

“Now, this does not invalidate the fact that we have the weapons and ambitions to face our opponents within our resources and strategies. Success for me is when I get home and go to bed knowing that I gave my best. It is knowing that I gave my best. Even if I win or lose, it is the feeling that I gave my best to beat Chelsea.”

Even if Chelsea are favourites for Saturday’s showdown, the Club World Cup has proven to everyone that the Brazilian teams are particularly strong. It’s worth noting that Palmeiras are undefeated in the tournament so far, too.

Estevao has dazzled at the Club World Cup so far with some eye-catching performances, but he won’t have experienced pressure like he will tomorrow.

What Enzo Maresca has said about Estevao Willian ahead of quarter-final showdown

In his pre-match press conference for the Chelsea tie against Palmeiras, Blues head coach Enzo Maresca was asked about Estevao and his future.

Maresca said via Football.London: “I never talk with Estevao since I joined Chelsea. I met his family at training ground. Nice family, fantastic family. But as I said, we start to talk about the future when this competition is finished. Now is not the moment to talk about the future, Estevao’s future. Everyone knows that this is a talented player, but in this moment is Palmeiras player. And we are here to play the game against Palmeiras tomorrow and hopefully we can win.”

It won’t be long before Estevao is a Chelsea player and the excitement around him will grow even further, but the immediate focus is on a big football match on Saturday.

Back in February, Estevao said he would celebrate if he scores against Chelsea at the Club World Cup tournament.

We suspect the right-winger will feel a mix of emotions going into the weekend, but it would be great for him to show Blues fans himself at his best. Of course, the dream scenario would be an Estevao masterclass but a Chelsea win.