Chelsea forward Estevao faces an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge as new manager Xabi Alonso reshapes the team’s tactical approach.
The Brazilian teenager, who arrived from Palmeiras in a £29million transfer last summer, enjoyed a productive debut campaign with 38 appearances, eight goals and three assists across all competitions.
However, the 19-year-old’s role appears set to diminish following Alonso’s appointment.
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder has implemented a three-at-the-back system featuring two defensive midfielders, two attacking midfielders and a lone striker.
Morgan Rogers, whose £117million switch to west London earlier this summer made him Chelsea’s record acquisition, has operated alongside Cole Palmer in the advanced midfield positions, with Joao Pedro deployed as the central forward.
The tactical shift has left Estevao sidelined from the starting lineup.
The Brazilian was introduced as a substitute for the final seven minutes of the Premier League fixture at Fulham and remained an unused replacement during the subsequent match against Brighton.
His strongest performances have come when operating in the central attacking midfield position.
Sources indicate Estevao has expressed concern regarding his diminished involvement.
According to reports, he has communicated to those around him his desire to remain at Chelsea, though limited opportunities during the opening months of the campaign could prompt him to reassess his options ahead of the January transfer window.
Beyond his Premier League involvement, Estevao accumulated 80 minutes in the Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town last month.
He began that encounter on the right flank as Chelsea secured a 3-0 success.
Former Chelsea captain Thiago Silva has offered words of encouragement to the young forward.
The Brazilian centre-back reportedly advised Estevao to remain patient and observe the quality of his competition in those positions.
Silva is said to have emphasised the importance of maintaining his attacking instincts and dribbling ability rather than altering his game to accommodate the physical demands of English football.
The advice reportedly included a directive to perform at such a level that the manager would have no choice but to select him.
Chelsea’s upcoming fixtures include a league trip to Arsenal on Sunday before a Carabao Cup encounter with Leeds United three days later.
Estevao is anticipated to feature from the start in that cup tie.