Chelsea’s long trip to Azerbaijan may have ended in frustration, but one teenager ensured the journey wasn’t wasted. In Baku, Estevão Willian lit up the Tofiq Bahramov Stadium with a goal of pure instinct — cutting inside, losing his footing, and still driving the ball low into the corner to give the Blues an early lead against Qarabag.
Although Enzo Maresca’s side ultimately surrendered that advantage in a 2-2 draw, the Brazilian’s performance stood out for its maturity and flair. At just 18, Estevão carried Chelsea’s attacking threat almost single-handedly, while senior teammates squandered a catalogue of late chances.
Maresca’s frustration on the touchline was clear, but so too was his admiration for the teenager who continues to deliver under pressure.
Chelsea’s Most Reliable Attacker
Estevão’s rise has been rapid and remarkable. He is now Chelsea’s top scorer this season, with four goals in his last seven appearances, and has shown the poise of a veteran in Europe’s biggest competition. His composed penalty against Ajax made him the club’s youngest-ever Champions League scorer — and his follow-up strike in Baku confirmed his name belongs among elite company.
No South American had ever scored in successive Champions League games at 18 until Estevão did it. CIES Football Observatory recently valued him at £103.8 million, ranking him behind only Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal among global teenage prospects.
Beyond the Numbers
| Stat (2025/26) | Estevão Willian |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 15 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Shot Accuracy | 64% |
source: Transfermarkt match data – 5 November 2025
The numbers confirm what Chelsea fans already see: a teenager combining natural flair with a sharpened end product. While others — including Enzo Fernández and Liam Delap — misfired in Baku, Estevão remained composed, showing variety in his dribbling and a growing understanding of when to go inside or burst down the line.
“From the Street” — Praise from the Dressing Room
Inside the squad, admiration for Estevão is unanimous. Brazilian teammate João Pedro couldn’t hide his delight earlier this season when describing the youngster’s instinctive quality:
“Mate, he’s from the street — you can see he is natural.” —João Pedro
Even as Maresca rotates personnel, Estevão has become the consistent spark in attack. Coaches note his increasing maturity — choosing better passing angles, pressing intelligently, and showing a relentless desire to learn.
Our View — Chelsea’s Quiet Revolution
In our view, Estevão represents the ideal blueprint for Chelsea’s new era under Maresca: technical quality fused with discipline. He doesn’t just offer highlights; he offers solutions. With Cole Palmer recovering and João Pedro yet to hit top gear, the teenager’s energy and precision are carrying the frontline. It looks likely that Maresca will soon reward him with a sustained Premier League run — perhaps starting against Wolves on Saturday.
Key Insights
- Big takeaway: Estevão has become Chelsea’s most reliable finisher at just 18.
- Quick stat: Only Lamine Yamal is valued higher among teenage players worldwide.
- Record watch: First South American to score in consecutive Champions League games aged 18.
- Tactical note: Maresca may re-shape his front three to accommodate the Brazilian’s pace and movement.
- Fan mood: Supporters view Estevão as the new face of Chelsea’s rebuild.
What’s Next
Chelsea return to Stamford Bridge to host Wolves on 9 November, with Estevão pushing hard for a start. Given his current form and confidence, few would bet against him adding to his growing reputation — and goal tally.
👉 Chelsea fans — should Maresca make Estevão a Premier League starter now, or protect him a bit longer?
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