Chelsea’s recent acquisition, Estevao Willian, experienced an emotional exit from the field after sustaining an ankle injury during a Brazilian Serie A match against Vitoria.
Estevao Willian, a highly sought-after forward, has been the focus of considerable interest from numerous European clubs. Ultimately, he secured a deal with the Premier League club Chelsea.
However, the young Brazilian forward is set to join Stamford Bridge only in 2025, when he turns 18.
The latest injury setback has raised concerns for Chelsea, particularly after Estevao’s recent match for Palmeiras, which saw him leave the field prematurely.
During the second half of their 2-0 loss to Vitoria on Saturday, the young forward was substituted due to a severe ankle injury, leaving him visibly distressed.
Footage shared on social media by Brazilian outlet ge.globo shows the 18-year-old twisting his left ankle during an attacking move on Palmeiras’ right side, resulting in a new injury setback.
Estevao lay on the ground for over a minute before receiving medical attention and was eventually carried off the field on a stretcher, covering his face with his shirt as he spoke with the medical staff on the sidelines.
Palmeiras’ head coach, Abel Ferreira, expressed his concern over Estevao’s condition.
According to Metro Sports, he said, “It’s worrying. It’s unfortunate that this happened. Football is like that; he had already been sidelined, and we tried to push him in the last game to get him into rhythm for the next match.”
This injury is particularly disheartening for Estevao, who had just returned from a sprain to his left ankle and knee before this game. His participation in the first leg of Palmeiras’ Copa do Brasil last-16 match against Flamengo next Thursday is now uncertain.
Separately, TUKO.co.ke reports that Chelsea may see as many as 12 players departing this summer, including notable names like Romelu Lukaku and Trevoh Chalobah.
