It was the perfect script for Estevao, an 18-year-old prodigy living up to the hype in just his ninth Chelsea appearance. After being thrown into the action in the second half, the Brazilian showed composure beyond his years, sliding in to convert Marc Cucurella’s inch-perfect delivery deep into stoppage time.
Terry, watching on with pride, couldn’t hide his admiration for the youngster. Taking to Instagram shortly after full-time, the former Blues captain wrote: “Love him already,” alongside photos of Estevao celebrating his match-winning moment. He also gave a special mention to Cucurella, whose pinpoint cross set up the decisive goal, adding: “What a ball from Marc Cucurella.”
Shortly after the game, Estevao shared his emotionswith fans in a heartfelt social media post. “First of all, I want to thank God for everything he’s been doing in my life,” he wrote. “I feel truly fulfilled after scoring my first Premier League goal on an incredible night alongside our fans! It’s hard to describe this moment…I’ll keep working to improve every day!”
When Chelsea secured Estevao’s signature, fans were told to be patient, that 2025-26 would be a ‘settling-in season’ for the teenager to adjust to English football. But that plan seems to have gone out the window. He’s already made nine appearances under Maresca,including three Premier League starts, proving he’s ready for the big stage far sooner than expected.
Speaking to Globo Esporte Estevao admitted even he’s surprised by how quickly he’s adapted: “I’m already getting lots of opportunities at Chelsea, more than I even expected. But I think it’s the result of the hard work I’ve maintained in training. Enzo Maresca has a lot of confidence in me to play, even arriving in a new league, in a new country. I try to repay that on the field.”
With Cole Palmer currently sidelined, and fellow forwards Facundo Buonanotte and Liam Delap also in the treatment room, Estevao could see his role expand in the coming weeks. After the international break, Chelsea head to Nottingham Forest before resuming their Champions League campaign against Ajax, and it would be a surprise if Estevao isn’t heavily involved. The youngster’s confidence is sky-high, and fans are already dreaming of what he could achieve in the blue shirt.
