Estêvão already concerned about Chelsea role under Xabi Alonso

Estêvão is reportedly concerned about his opportunities under new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso and could reconsider his position if his playing time remains limited before January.

The 19-year-old still wants to remain at Stamford Bridge and is not currently looking for an exit. However, ESPN Brazil journalist Renato Senise reports that the Brazilian has expressed concerns to people close to him about where he fits into Alonso's plans.

Those doubts have emerged after only three matches under the new Chelsea boss, making the situation particularly early but potentially significant.

Estêvão's start to the season has followed his recovery from the thigh injury suffered in April, which also ruled him out of the World Cup.

He played only seven minutes against Fulham in Chelsea's Premier League opener before starting in the League Cup.

The clearest indication of his current position came during the 4-3 victory over Brighton, when Estêvão remained an unused substitute.

His preferred role is centrally in attack, but Chelsea have considerable competition there. Cole Palmer is already established, while £117m summer signing Morgan Rogers provides another major obstacle.

The right side could offer an alternative, although Pedro Neto is currently operating there as a wing-back in Alonso's system.

That role reportedly creates another concern for Estêvão. He believes adapting physically to the position could require additional muscle, potentially sacrificing some of the mobility that is central to his game.

There is currently no indication that Estêvão wants to leave.

The youngster likes Chelsea and remains determined to succeed at Stamford Bridge, meaning neither he nor those around him are drawing major conclusions after three matches under Alonso.

However, the next four months could determine whether that position changes.

ESPN Brazil reports that a “change of posture” could be considered in January if Estêvão continues struggling for meaningful minutes.

Chelsea invested €61.5m (£53.2m) to sign him from Palmeiras, and he has since registered eight goals and three assists across 38 appearances.

For now, Estêvão intends to fight for his place. But his involvement between now and January will be closely watched.

Estêvão's immediate priority will be earning a larger role in Alonso's rotation as Chelsea's schedule becomes busier.

There is no transfer push at present, but if his opportunities remain restricted throughout the autumn, January could become the first genuine decision point regarding his Chelsea future.