Xabi Alonso says Estevao remains central to Chelsea plans despite limited starts

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso says Estevao remains an important part of his plans despite the teenager’s limited involvement at the beginning of the season.

The 19-year-old Brazilian has been used as a substitute in two of Chelsea’s three Premier League matches so far, including Sunday’s 2-1 defeat by Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.

Estevao came close to earning Chelsea a point late in the match when his effort was saved by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. It was a significant contribution after he had been introduced from the bench, and Alonso praised the forward’s impact.

“Este is ready, he’s training well. [Against Arsenal] he had a very good impact, he has a great chance. So he’s fully involved and with a very good attitude every day,” Alonso said via the Evening Standard.

Estevao’s reduced role represents a change from last season, when he made 12 Premier League starts. He scored eight goals in all competitions while playing under Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior.

Alonso, however, said the teenager’s development remains a priority and believes there is plenty of time for him to establish himself in the Chelsea team.

“100% [he has an important role], because of his potential, because he’s so young, but he’s in that process to adapt and to learn quickly. And the season is going to be long.”

The Chelsea manager’s comments underline his confidence in Estevao’s ability, despite the player having to compete for opportunities during the early part of the campaign.

Chelsea will now switch their focus to the Carabao Cup as they attempt to respond to their first competitive defeat since Alonso took charge. Leeds will visit Stamford Bridge on Wednesday in the third round of the competition.

Estevao could be considered for involvement as Chelsea look to progress, although the club also have several players dealing with fitness or availability issues.

Levi Colwill is back in contention after recovering from a fitness problem. He was named among the substitutes for the defeat by Arsenal but did not start the match.

Moises Caicedo, Marco Palestra, Emmanuel Emegha and Jordan Henderson remain sidelined, meaning Chelsea will continue to manage a number of absences while preparing for the meeting with Leeds.

For Estevao, the immediate challenge is to build on his late appearance against Arsenal and continue adapting to the demands of English football. Alonso’s assessment was clear: the forward is training well, remains fully involved and continues to have an important role at Chelsea.