Chelsea have been told that they have signed “the best Brazilian player since Neymar”, while Enzo Maresca has revealed the identity of the club’s next signing after a 2-1 win over Palmeiras in the Club World Cup.
The Blues secured a place in the semi-finals of the tournament after a narrow victory over the Brazilian side, thanks to a late own goal. Earlier in the game, Willian Estevão had equalised for the South Americans after the Premier League giants took the lead through Cole Palmer.
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Praise for Estevão
It was Estevão’s performances that really ignited fans, with the 19-year-old set for a €33.5 million move to Stamford Bridge after the tournament.
He was awarded FIFA’s “Superior Player of the Match” award and received praise from both Chelsea boss Maresca and Palmer.
“He’s very good, a huge talent, a fantastic player. The only thing is that when you come from South America or other parts of the world, you have to adapt,” the manager said.
“We’re going to help him adapt, be happy and enjoy football. We have no doubt that he will be an important player for Chelsea.”
Palmer added: “You can see he’s a top player, so it’s very exciting. I just said we’re looking forward to him coming along, but he didn’t understand a word of what I said.”
Compared to Neymar
João Paulo Sampaio, head of Palmeiras’ academy, was even more enthusiastic in his praise when he spoke to BBC Sport:
“Estevão is the best player to come from Brazilian football since Neymar. You see him, and you fall in love. He is already impressing with his technique, but just like Neymar at this stage in his career, he has not matured physically yet and is not as strong as Endrick, so he can still develop a lot. That is what amazes everyone and makes them believe that he will reach a much higher level.”
Maresca reveals next signing
Jamie Gittens, another future Chelsea star, was also present in Philadelphia to watch the game.
Chelsea have not officially announced his arrival yet, despite Borussia Dortmund confirming the transfer, but Maresca confirmed it after the win.
“Jamie was here tonight, he was on the pitch and he wants to be with us one more day before he goes on holiday,” the coach said.
Chelsea will face Fluminense in the semi-finals on Tuesday.
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