Estevão Willian, the promising teenager set to join Chelsea next summer, recently faced off against Blues legend Thiago Silva in a Brazilian league match
Estevão Willian, the promising teenager set to join Chelsea next summer, recently faced off against Blues legend Thiago Silva in a Brazilian league match.
After the game, Estevão shared an uplifting message he received from Silva regarding his upcoming move to Stamford Bridge.
The 17-year-old forward, currently playing for Palmeiras, is widely considered one of football’s top young talents.
Chelsea secured his signing for a reported £56 million, with the official transfer taking place next summer once he turns 18. Despite Palmeiras’ 1-0 defeat to Fluminense on December 8, Estevão had a memorable exchange with Silva, who plays for Fluminense.
Speaking after the match, Estevão revealed Silva’s words: “Thiago Silva just told me after our game that Chelsea is top and they’re waiting for me with open arms,” the young forward told ESPN Brazil.
Estevão has been making waves in Brazil, impressing with his performances for Palmeiras. This season, he has scored 19 goals and provided 12 assists in 50 appearances across all competitions, which is why Chelsea moved quickly to secure his future.
Thiago Silva, who joined Chelsea from Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer in 2020, has become an integral part of the team, making 155 appearances and contributing nine goals and four assists. During his time with the Blues, Silva has won major trophies, including the UEFA Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, and UEFA Super Cup.
Despite returning to his boyhood club Fluminense, Silva remains a respected figure at Chelsea. His encouraging message to Estevão reflects the warm, team-oriented environment at Chelsea, one that the young forward can look forward to when he makes his move to London.