Xabi Alonso forced to make Estevao promise after €100m Chelsea exit rumours

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has assured Estevao that he will receive more playing time as speculation grows over the Brazilian teenager’s future at Stamford Bridge.

According to a report by FootballTransfers on Friday, 9 October, 2026, Alonso has promised to give the young attacker more opportunities after his limited involvement in the Premier League raised questions about his role under the new manager.

Estevao has started twice in the Carabao Cup but has played only 23 minutes in the Premier League this season. The 19-year-old was also restricted to three minutes during Chelsea’s 3-0 defeat to Brentford before the international break.

His lack of regular action has fuelled speculation that he could consider leaving Chelsea, with Barcelona reportedly monitoring his situation ahead of a possible move in 2027.

However, Chelsea regard the Brazilian as a key part of their long-term plans and are not prepared to entertain offers for him in January or next summer.

His Estimated Transfer Value has also risen to €110.9 million, according to FootballTransfers.

Alonso has now addressed the situation, explaining that Estevao is still adapting to the demands of English football after recovering from the hamstring injury that ended his 2025/26 campaign prematurely.

“It’s still early, just a few games since we started, and Este is feeling much better from the injury,” Alonso said.

The Chelsea manager also pointed to the difference between playing for Brazil and competing regularly in the Premier League, stressing that the teenager remains an important option for his team.

“We have seen in Brazil that he has played more. The context is different – what he has played with the national team to the Premier League.

“But we know the demand of the Premier League and we know Este, how important he can be in some games.”

Alonso further reassured the youngster that his opportunities would increase as the season progresses.

“He will have his moments and more minutes.”

Estevao had previously insisted that he was concentrating on improving his performances in training rather than worrying about his limited appearances.

The attacker said he intended to make the most of every opportunity while trusting the process under his new manager.