Chelsea were held to a disappointing 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace in their opening fixture of the 2025-26 Premier League season.
More importantly, Enzo Maresca debuted a number of new faces for the club during the opening game, but none of them were able to inspire the team to victory.
But the one name that shone brighter than the rest on Sunday was Estevao Willian.
The Brazilian came on as a second-half substitute for Jamie Gittens and immediately managed to bring the Stamford Bridge faithful to their feet.
Following the game, Maresca spoke about the teenager’s performance and backed him for great success at the club in the years to come.
The Chelsea manager’s words are certain to boost Estevao Willian’s confidence going forward.
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Enzo Maresca heaps praise on Estevao Willian following his Premier League debut
On being asked to review his new signing’s Premier League debut, Maresca predicted that he is set to become a ‘fantastic’ player for the Blues in the years to come.
He said to Sky Sports, “The personality has been top. You can see that he is from Brazil, they are different and he is going to be a fantastic player for the club. We know about Cole [Palmer], Estevao needs time to adapt but he is going to be important for the team.”
Though Estevao Willian did not manage to score or assist on his Premier League debut, the Chelsea fans were impressed by his impactful cameo and are now clamouring for him to start ahead of Gittens against West Ham on Friday.
Since the player managed to impress his manager as well, it’ll be interesting to see if Maresca gives the teenager the vote of confidence and starts him from the off against the Hammers.
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