Brazil's Estevao Set to Shine: Ancelotti's Bold Prediction for World Cup Surprise
Brazil assistant coach Davide Ancelotti has named Estevao Willian, an 18-year-old winger for Chelsea, as a potential surprise star at the upcoming World Cup. The tournament will take place from 11 June to 19 July across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Ancelotti, part of his father Carlo Ancelotti's coaching staff, highlighted Estevao's rising talent, stating, "The guy that will surprise you is someone that is not so well known." Estevao has made a significant impact since joining Chelsea from Palmeiras for an initial fee of £29m in 2024, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in 34 appearances. Despite missing recent friendlies against France and Croatia due to a hamstring injury, he showed his potential by scoring in Chelsea's 7-0 FA Cup quarter-final victory against Port Vale. Ancelotti praised Estevao as a "really big talent" and a capable finisher, indicating he could dominate in Europe in the coming years. Before his move to England, Estevao broke records at Palmeiras, becoming the first under-18 player to achieve a combined 20 goals and assists in the Brazilian top flight, surpassing Neymar's record. However, Estevao's chance to play alongside Neymar, who has been omitted from recent friendlies due to injury concerns, remains uncertain. Ancelotti noted that Neymar's return depends on the manager's decision, with the final squad list due on 18 May. The Brazilian national team also relies on Vinicius Jr., who has eight goals in 47 appearances for Brazil and is a key player for Real Madrid. Ancelotti described Vinicius as a star with high expectations, while also emphasizing the importance of managing players' physical conditions leading up to the World Cup. Brazil is set to face Morocco in their opener on 13 June, followed by matches against Scotland and Haiti in Group C.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-04-09