Estevao suffered a hamstring injury against Manchester United, ruling him out for Chelsea's season and casting doubt on his World Cup participation.
Chelsea's 18-year-old winger Estevao is facing an uncertain future with Brazil's World Cup squad after sustaining a season-ending hamstring injury during the weekend. The teenager was forced to leave the pitch during Saturday's 1-0 loss to Manchester United after visibly pulling up. Medical scans later confirmed a hamstring strain, ending his participation in the remaining matches of the campaign. The setback now raises serious concerns about whether he can recover in time for the tournament in North America.
Estevao had been a consistent selection for Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil team in the lead-up to the tournament, but his injury complicates that plan. While there remains hope he could be fit for the competition, questions linger over Ancelotti's willingness to gamble on a player who may not regain full fitness before the group stage begins. The Brazilian attacker was seen leaving the field in visible distress after his withdrawal.
Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior described Estevao's reaction to the injury as heartbreaking. He was devastated, Rosenior said following the match. He was crying at half-time. I'm really devastated for him. The coach's comments highlighted the emotional toll of the setback on the young star. Estevao's injury adds to Chelsea's growing list of hamstring concerns.
Brazil will open their World Cup campaign against Morocco on 13 June in the group stage. The match marks the beginning of their path in the tournament, but Estevao's availability remains a key question mark. His absence from Chelsea's final games of the season further complicates his recovery timeline. The injury is the second hamstring issue he has faced this season.
Despite his injury setback, Estevao has had a standout maiden season at Stamford Bridge. He contributed eight goals and four assists in 36 appearances for Chelsea. The teenager joined the club in the summer from Palmeiras for an initial £29 million fee, with potential add-ons worth up to £51 million. His performances earned him a regular spot in Brazil's senior squad ahead of the tournament.
Estevao's injury adds to a growing list of hamstring problems at Chelsea. Captain Reece James, forward Cole Palmer, and young attacker Jamie Gittens are also currently sidelined with similar issues. The recurring injuries have disrupted the team's momentum and raised fitness concerns across the squad. Chelsea's medical team faces an ongoing challenge to manage these persistent problems.