Who Is Estevao Willian - Brazil's Next 'Neymar' ? (image-instagram/estevaowilian_)
Although the Club World Cup kicked off amid setbacks and controversies, none could argue with the fact that with the expanded version, the new version of the tournament had paved the way for young talents to be showcased on the global stage. One such young prodigy is Brazil’s own Estevão Willian—the wonderkid who is touted as the ‘next Neymar’.
The 18-year-old had already made his maiden appearance for Palmeiras at the Club World Cup most memorable, as he ended up with the Player of the Match award in the game against Portuguese club FC Porto. Ever since the conclusion of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A season, Estevão, who is nicknamed “Messinho,” has been constantly in the news.
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Many had even compared Estevão’s style to that of Barcelona and Spain winger Lamine Yamal and said they have similar potential.
The left-footed winger had so far played 33 matches across competitions in the 2024–25 season and scored 11 goals while assisting five times. His breakout season, though, came in the 2023–24 season, where he managed to amass 31 goal contributions for Palmeiras in 50 appearances.
Following his stupendous performances, the youngster also received a maiden national call-up last year for Brazil’s World Cup qualifier matches against Ecuador and Paraguay. He debuted against Ecuador at the Estádio Couto Pereira. He substituted Luiz Henrique in the 61st minute as Brazil won 1–0.
As of now, he is part of the team under Ancelotti’s wing. Though Estevão joined in earlier this month, he effortlessly grabbed the attention of the Spanish coach as well. “He’s got a special talent, he’s got character, he’s a good person, he’s humble, and he seems fine to me, but with a young player, we have to be patient and careful. He has the characteristics to be very important for the future of the national team,” Ancelotti said.
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Meanwhile, Estevão is set to join Chelsea for the transfer fee in the region of $37 million, agreed upon last year in July. He can join the Premier League club once he finishes the Club World Cup. At a very young age, the boy had already caught the eye of the top clubs across Europe.
