Estêvão Already Considering Leaving Chelsea Due to Lack of Minutes Under Xabi Alonso

Estêvão Starts to Worry About His Lack of Minutes at Chelsea

The season has barely begun, but Estêvão is already assessing his future at Chelsea amid difficulties finding playing time under Xabi Alonso. The young Brazilian forward arrived at Stamford Bridge with huge expectations after standing out for Palmeiras, but his adjustment to English football is facing an unexpected obstacle: internal competition.

According to information from ESPN Brasil, the 19-year-old has reportedly expressed concerns to those close to him about potentially having a secondary role this season. That does not mean he has decided to leave, but it does open the door for the Brazilian to seriously consider his options during the January transfer window.

Estêvão has played just seven minutes in the opening rounds of the Premier League, coming on late against Fulham. He subsequently remained on the bench without playing against Brighton, while his only start came in the Carabao Cup, in a match used to give several players a rest.

Xabi Alonso's System Makes His Situation Even More Difficult

One of the main problems for Estêvão appears to be related to the tactical structure implemented by Xabi Alonso. The Spanish coach has opted for a 3-4-2-1, a system that reduces the presence of traditional wingers and places much of the attacking responsibility on players operating from more central positions.

That is precisely where one of the biggest obstacles for the Brazilian emerges. Estêvão is more comfortable operating centrally, but that area features high-profile names within Chelsea's project, including Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers.

A Multi-Million-Dollar Investment Chelsea Needs to Develop

The London club agreed to sign Estêvão from Palmeiras for approximately $72 million, although the deal included different financial conditions.

Since arriving, Estêvão has made 38 appearances for Chelsea, scoring eight goals and providing four assists. Those numbers still reflect a player adapting to a new environment, but they also highlight the Brazilian's need for greater consistency to turn his enormous potential into regular production.

The problem is that Chelsea have too many attacking options to guarantee him a place. Palmer, Rogers and João Pedro are among the strongest candidates to occupy attacking positions, while other players are also competing for opportunities.

January Could Become a Defining Moment for Estêvão

For now, Estêvão's intention would not be to leave Chelsea. The Brazilian is reportedly happy in London and still wants to succeed at the club that invested heavily in him. However, without playing time, patience can run out quickly.

The first half of the season will be decisive. If Alonso begins to find opportunities for Estêvão, the entire situation could change. A run of positive performances could help him earn the manager's trust and turn the competition into an opportunity to grow.