Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has insisted there will be no rush for Estevao to return to action as the teenage winger remains on compassionate leave due to a personal matter.
The Brazilian, who has been one of Chelsea’s standout performers in recent weeks, is currently in his home country and is a major doubt for Tuesday’s EFL Cup semi-final clash against Arsenal.
His absence has prompted concern among supporters, particularly given his influence in the first leg, where he was one of the Blues’ brightest attacking threats.
Estevao has been replaced in the starting line-up by fellow youngster Jamie Gittens, but Rosenior was keen to stress that football comes second while the 18-year-old deals with his situation away from the pitch.
“I don’t know yet,” Rosenior said when asked about Estevao’s availability. “He is a young kid who has come in and been magnificent. He is going through a really difficult time for personal reasons and is on compassionate leave. I won’t put any pressure on him. It has to be right for him and he has to feel in the right place to perform for this team.”
The Chelsea boss’ comments underline the club’s careful handling of a player who has enjoyed a rapid rise since breaking into the senior side.
Last weekend, Estevao became the second-youngest player in Chelsea’s history to score and assist in a Premier League match during the 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace, further highlighting his growing importance.
He also started in Chelsea’s thrilling 3-2 away win over Napoli in the Champions League, delivering another assured display on a major European stage.
However, Rosenior confirmed the winger will not feature against Arsenal this week, with the focus instead on ensuring his well-being ahead of the weekend league fixture against bottom-placed Wolves.
Chelsea will feel his absence keenly as Rosenior pursues his first piece of silverware at the club, but the manager made it clear there are no short-term demands being placed on the youngster.
