Estevao Willian, who had not made a Premier League start this season, delivered an impressive performance against Manchester United on Saturday. The 19-year-old winger, who had been an unused substitute during Chelsea’s recent penalty shootout loss to Liverpool, received enthusiastic support from away fans at Anfield just days earlier.

On Saturday, Chelsea supporters expressed their desire to see Estevao more prominently featured, chanting “Steve-o” in reference to the £38 million signing from Palmeiras. Estevao made his presence felt on the pitch, contributing significantly in a team lacking a recognized striker.

He initially had a goal disallowed for offside and saw another near-post attempt ruled out in the second half due to a tight decision. Nonetheless, Estevao’s solid 86-minute performance contributed to Chelsea’s 2-0 victory, earning him a standing ovation from the home crowd and praise from head coach Xabi Alonso.

During his time on the field, Estevao recorded six shots—the most by a Chelsea player in a Premier League match this season—as well as numerous notable offensive contributions. He had 12 touches within the opponent’s penalty area, created three goal-scoring opportunities, delivered eight crosses, and completed five dribbles, all of which were among the highest figures for any Chelsea player in the match.

Despite the strong showing, Estevao’s lack of playing time earlier in the season remains a topic of discussion. Prior to this match, he had made just one appearance as a starter this season in the Carabao Cup against League One side Luton Town.

This limited playing time has prompted speculation in Brazilian media regarding his happiness at the club. However, sources from Chelsea and Estevao’s circle have indicated that there is no current discontent. Praise for Estevao’s professionalism has circulated, as he has competed with players like Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer, and Joao Pedro for limited opportunities. Chelsea’s strategy of often prioritizing defensive options off the bench, particularly after scoring first, has also limited Estevao’s chances.

Alonso had hinted at including Estevao in the starting lineup against Manchester United, having faced specific questions from the media about the young winger leading up to the game. After the match, Alonso confirmed that the decision to start Estevao had already been decided following the previous weekend’s loss to Tottenham.

“We spoke after Tottenham and he knew that he was going to be playing today,” Alonso explained. “He has responded well to show that he deserves more playing time, and that readiness is what you want from a player. I’m very happy for him.” He added, “He deserved to enjoy his game. He was really close to scoring and fought hard throughout.”

Estevao’s performance will likely intensify the pressure on Alonso to keep him in the lineup moving forward.

‘Gascoigne-esque’ Rogers Also Stars

Chelsea struggled to find their rhythm until Rogers took control of the game in the 50th minute. After receiving a pass from midfielder Romeo Lavia, the £117 million record signing maneuvered through the Manchester United defense and chipped the ball over goalkeeper Senne Lammens in a moment described by pundit Joe Cole as “Gascoigne-esque.”

That goal arrived after Manchester United had controlled the first half but failed to convert their chances. Rogers’ strike settled a previously disorganized Chelsea team.

The club faces ongoing challenges, including the absence of eight players before kick-off, with Joao Pedro’s injury being particularly significant. Pedro’s thigh injury suffered before the defeat to Tottenham marked Chelsea’s first match of the season where they failed to score.

Despite struggling in his central striker role previously, Rogers earned Alonso’s trust following his performance in the penalty shootout against Liverpool and was rewarded with a standout moment against United.

Rogers has now tallied six goals this season across all competitions and has been involved in ten goals over 13 appearances, making him a crucial player for Chelsea. Meanwhile, Palmer found the net from the penalty spot, securing victory just a week after receiving a red card against Tottenham.

Although Chelsea continues to work on structural improvements, Alonso highlighted that their attacking capabilities remain strong enough to outmatch opponents despite current difficulties. The team’s strategic deployment of players kept Manchester United guessing, opting to play versatile attackers like Rogers and Pedro Neto in central positions.

“Today has worked really well,” Alonso remarked. “We need to be creative at times and try to find solutions with the players available.” He acknowledged Neto’s contributions in unfamiliar positions as beneficial to the team’s overall performance.