Estevao Willian’s breakthrough season at Chelsea has been disrupted by a hamstring injury that casts doubt over his participation at this summer’s World Cup.
The 18-year-old winger was forced off during Chelsea’s 1–0 defeat to Manchester United after pulling up with what appeared to be a muscle issue.
He was visibly emotional as he left the pitch, with Chelsea staff later confirming that he had a hamstring problem.
As reported by BBC Sport on Wednesday, medical scans have since confirmed a hamstring strain that will rule him out for the remainder of Chelsea’s season.
It is another setback in a campaign where he has already dealt with similar muscle issues.
The injury comes at a difficult moment for both club and country. Estevao had been regularly involved with the Brazil national football team setup in the build-up to the World Cup, and manager Carlo Ancelotti is expected to include him in long-term planning for the tournament in North America.
Brazil begin their group stage against the Moroccan national football team on June 13, leaving a tight recovery window for the teenager to prove his fitness and sharpness.
Ex-Chelsea coach Liam Rosenior, said, “He was devastated.
“He was crying at half-time. I’m really devastated for him,” he said.
Despite the injury concern, sources close to the player remain optimistic that he could recover in time.
However, his lack of match fitness may ultimately determine whether he is risked on football’s biggest stage.
Estevao’s debut season at Stamford Bridge has still shown promise, with eight goals and four assists in 36 appearances, including standout performances against top European opposition.
For now, though, both Chelsea and Brazil face an anxious wait over his recovery.
