'Think I already love him!' - Chelsea fans go wild for Estevao Willian as Stamford Bridge-bound wonderkid claims player of the match award in Palmeiras' Club World Cup opener against Porto

Chelsea supporters have been closely watching Estevao develop at Palmeiras since the Blues agreed a pre-transfer for the Brazilian sensation in the summer of 2024, with the attacker heading to Stamford Bridge after the Club World Cup having now turned 18. In the Verdao's tournament opener against Porto, the 18-year-old managed to win the 'Superior Player of the Match' award on the back of his showing in the clash.

Chelsea fan @Louis_Beneventi wrote: "If you didn’t tell me Estevao was 18, I wouldn’t think it with how he’s playing. The positions he’s taking up, the physicality he’s shown in these opening minutes. I’ve only watched 19 minutes of him, and I think I already love him."

@falsewinger said on X: "And that's Estevao off. Not his best game, but very promising display once again for a teenager. Chelsea have a gem."

X user @CFCZeno wrote: "Estevao Willian at 18 years old showed another side to his game that makes him special. Football IQ and Game Intelligence, Decision Making, Movement, he is mentally top. Club World Cup against Porto, and looked he belonged, Chelsea hit the jackpot here."

@CarefreeLewisG added: "First game against a European side and Estevao already took MOTM."

@leedsnoinfidel concluded: "Estevao solid player, needs to work on timing of his releases and a couple of decision-making things, but it’s what you expect off an 18-year-old. Definitely think he can contribute next season."

@UberChelseaFC said: "18 years old and playing across every single attacking position apart from ST against a UCL level side whilst looking very strong. Think I’ve seen enough to know Estevao Willian has got what it takes."

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Despite the match between Palmeiras and Porto ending in a goalless draw, Estevao's quality was clear for the world to see. The Brazilian teenager did not necessarily have the best stats, but managed to impress quite a few fans with his ability to drive into spaces and his positioning inside the box.

The Brazilian teenager will travel to Stamford Bridge after the conclusion of the Club World Cup to start training under Enzo Maresca, with the upcoming season not too far away after the conclusion of the tournament in the United States.