Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has downplayed concerns over Estevao’s future at the club because of his limited playing time. 

The Brazilian winger was introduced as a second-half substitute in the Blues’ 2-1 defeat against Arsenal on Sunday, playing just nine minutes in the Premier League game. 

The former Palmeiras youngster is in his second season at Stamford Bridge but faces stern competition from Pedro Neto and Morgan Rogers.

He played 22 Premier League games last campaign with two goals and two assists to his name. 

ESTEVAO’S CONCERNS AT CHELSEA 

Estevao has played three games for Chelsea in the 2026-27 season, including his only start in the Carabao Cup win against Luton Town. 

ESPN Brazil reports that the 19-year-old is worried about his lack of opportunities, raising questions about his future in London. 

Estevao’s two appearances in the Premier League came as a second-half substitute and they accumulated to 16 minutes of action. 

He came in for final seven minutes in the league opener against Fulham and as an 81st-minute substitute against Arsenal but he was an unused substitute in the win against Brighton.

ALONSO ASSURES ESTEVAO OF IMPROVED PLAYING TIME

Ahead of Chelsea’s Carabao Cup clash with Leeds United on Wednesday, Alonso weighed in on Estevao’s concerns. 

The Spanish coach applauded Estevao for his positive attitude and his readiness to jump into action whenever he is called up.

“No, Estevao is ready," Alonso said in a press conference, as per football.london. "He's training well. 

“The other day [vs Arsenal], he had a very good impact, he had a great chance.

"So he's fully involved and with a very good attitude every day.”

Alonso further assured the Brazilian forward of more opportunities with Chelsea competing in the Premier League, Carabao Cup and the FA Cup this season.

“You know, [we've had] private conversations, they should remain private,” he continued. 

“But the season is going to be long and the players that have the desire and the hunger to prove and to show every day that they are up for the challenge, it's what we want to create here in the building.

"Este is part of it. So he has a very good attitude, very good mentality to prepare for every game and to be ready for the team."

Estevao is expected to play a part in Carabao Cup third round on Wednesday as Chelsea aim to overcome Leeds United hurdle to advance into the next round.