Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has defended his handling of Estêvão after leaving the Brazilian winger on the bench throughout Wednesday's Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool.
The 19-year-old has yet to start a Premier League match this season, despite impressing during his debut campaign at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea supporters repeatedly chanted Estêvão's name at Anfield, but Alonso pointed to the physical demands of the match and enforced substitutions when explaining his decision.
Alonso responds to Estêvão frustration
Chelsea were eliminated from the Carabao Cup after losing 6-5 on penalties following a 1-1 draw with Liverpool.
Estêvão remained an unused substitute despite the absence of João Pedro and Cole Palmer, while Alonso used only four of his five available substitutions.
The Chelsea manager acknowledged that the winger would prefer more playing time.
"I understand his situation and that he could be happier for sure," Alonso said.
"Every player wants to play, wants to be part of the team."
However, Alonso insisted the Brazilian would receive opportunities as the season progresses.
"I'm sure that Este will have his moment. It's my responsibility and we need to deal with that."
Estêvão still waiting for Premier League start
Estêvão joined Chelsea from Palmeiras in 2025 and enjoyed an encouraging first season in English football.
He scored eight goals in all competitions, including a memorable Champions League strike against Barcelona.
However, a hamstring injury in April ended his season prematurely and prevented him from representing Brazil at the World Cup.
Since Alonso's appointment, Estêvão has started only twice, both times in the Carabao Cup.
He has made six substitute appearances in the Premier League but has yet to feature in the starting line-up.
Alonso explains physical demands behind selection
Alonso suggested that Estêvão's physical development and recovery from injury have influenced his limited involvement.
The Chelsea manager highlighted the intensity of Premier League football and the importance of being physically prepared.
He also explained that injuries and fitness concerns during the Liverpool match restricted his substitution options.
Maxence Lacroix was forced off with a hamstring problem, while Moisés Caicedo experienced discomfort and Malo Gusto suffered cramp.
Those issues contributed to Alonso's decision not to introduce Estêvão, even as Chelsea supporters called for the Brazilian to play.
Key Points
- Estêvão remained an unused substitute during Chelsea's Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool.
- The 19-year-old has yet to start a Premier League match this season.
- Alonso acknowledged the winger's frustration and promised further opportunities.
- The Chelsea manager cited physical demands and enforced substitutions as reasons for his limited involvement.
What's Next?
Chelsea host Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday, 31 October, with kick-off scheduled for 12.30pm at Stamford Bridge.
Estêvão will hope to earn more playing time as Alonso assesses his attacking options following the Carabao Cup elimination.
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