Estevao’s electric emergence ‘guarantees Brazil’s future’

For Brazil, a 2–0 win over Senegal on Saturday night offered something far greater than a routine result: a glimpse of the future.

And that future, judging by the way Estevao lit up north London, looks unmistakably bright.

The 18-year-old Chelsea winger was the standout performer in a match defined by flashes of attacking fluidity and Carlo Ancelotti's ongoing experimentation. Playing on the right of a dynamic front four with Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo and Matheus Cunha, he needed only one moment to tilt the evening his way, operating with the confidence of someone who has been doing it for seasons.

Just before the half-hour mark, a Casemiro pass ricocheted kindly into his stride, and Estevao accelerated onto the ball before curling a left-footed finish inside the far post. Casemiro's header soon made it 2–0, but the evening belonged to the teenager after his sixth strike in last five starts.

Estevao scores against Senegal. Photo: Reuters

Goal aside, what impressed most was his appetite to press, his measured combination play, his ability to glide past defenders without forcing the spectacle.

"With Estevao, Brazil has a guaranteed future," Ancelotti said. "The amount of talent he has is incredible… he's got a lot of magic and he works very hard."

His rise has felt rapid, but in truth it has long been signposted. Born in Franca, Sao Paulo, Estevao joined Cruzeiro's academy in 2017 and became Nike's youngest Brazilian signee at just 10. His move to Palmeiras in 2021 further accelerated his ascent.

Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira has long been effusive, calling him "the best talent to emerge from Brazil since Neymar". He soon earned him the nickname "Messinho".

Chelsea had acted decisively in late 2024 -- as they often do -- securing a deal worth over 50 million pounds. Estevao arrived at Stamford Bridge this July after Palmeiras completed their campaign in the FIFA Club World Cup, where Chelsea were crowned champions. Ancelotti believes he is built for both stages.

"He doesn't need many minutes to show his quality," the Italian noted. "Brazil are lucky to have him -- Chelsea as well."

More than two decades have passed since the Selecao last lifted the World Cup. Thus, for the five-time world champions, the implications stretch far beyond a promising cameo in London.

Photo: Reuters

At the Emirates Stadium, Brazil fans may have caught their first real glimpse of someone who is not merely the next Neymar, nor a Messi imitation, but a player whose emergence makes the idea of restoring a dynasty feel possible again.