Chelsea winger Estevao has been ruled out for the rest of the season after suffering a hamstring injury, casting serious doubt over his place in Brazil’s World Cup squad this summer.
Estevao, 18, went down during Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester United on Saturday, pulling up and signalling immediately for medical attention. Scans later confirmed a hamstring strain severe enough to end his debut campaign at Stamford Bridge.
The setback comes at a crucial moment for both club and country. Estevao has been a regular feature in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil plans in the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, but his availability is now uncertain as the squad takes shape.
Sources close to the player have told BBC Sport that he is expected to recover in time for the competition. However, doubts remain over whether Ancelotti will take a risk on a player who may not have enough game time to prove full match fitness before the group stage begins.
Brazil open their World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13.
Estevao was visibly distraught as he left the pitch against Manchester United. Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior admitted the injury hit the young forward hard.
“He was devastated,” Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior said after the match.
“He was crying at half-time. I’m really devastated for him.”
The injury is also the second hamstring problem Estevao has suffered this season, adding to growing concern over his physical resilience. He is one of several Chelsea players currently sidelined with similar issues, including captain Reece James, forward Cole Palmer and youngster Jamie Gittens.
Despite the setback, Estevao has made a strong impression in his first season in England, registering eight goals and four assists in 36 appearances.
NOP NIGERIA reports that Chelsea signed him from Brazilian side Palmeiras in the summer for an initial £29 million fee, with the deal potentially rising by a further £51 million in add-ons.
