"Messinho" To Play Chelsea and Then Join Them in Summer
Brazilian teenage sensation Estevao Willian, widely known as "Messinho," will be facing his future club, Chelsea, at the FIFA Club World Cup before officially joining them in July.
The 18-year-old winger, who has dazzled for Palmeiras and the Brazilian national team, will play for his current side against Chelsea in the tournament’s quarter-finals, giving Blues fans an early glimpse of their next big signing.
Chelsea secured Estevao’s signature in a deal worth an initial £29 million, potentially rising to over £50 million with add-ons. The agreement, reached in 2024, included a stipulation that Estevao would remain with Palmeiras until after their Club World Cup campaign in the United States.
As a result, he will first try to help Palmeiras overcome Chelsea before making his long-anticipated move to the Premier League.
Palmeiras’ Rising Star Draws Global Attention
Estevao’s rapid ascent has drawn comparisons to Brazilian greats, with some at Palmeiras calling him the best talent to emerge from a Brazilian club since Neymar. He’s already a full Brazil international, earning five senior caps and scoring 11 goals in 32 appearances this season.
His technical ability, creativity, and mental resilience have made him a standout in both domestic and continental competitions.
Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira and former Chelsea winger Willian have both praised Estevao’s extraordinary potential, urging patience as he adapts to the demands of European football.
Despite his youth, Estevao has shown remarkable composure and maturity, attributes that have convinced Chelsea to invest heavily in his future.
A Glimpse of the Future at the Club World Cup
For Chelsea supporters, the Club World Cup presents a rare opportunity to watch Estevao compete against his soon-to-be teammates before he officially dons the blue shirt.
While Estevao has already spoken about his ambitions to one day play in other top European leagues, his immediate focus is on Palmeiras and making a strong impression at the tournament.
Once the Club World Cup concludes, Estevao will travel to London to join Chelsea’s first team for the 2025/26 season, bypassing the club’s usual loan system for young signings. The excitement around "Messinho" is palpable, with many in Brazil and England tipping him to become one of the next global football superstars.
