Palmeiras' Estêvão Aims to Shine Against Chelsea in Club World Cup

In a highly anticipated showdown at the Club World Cup quarterfinals, Palmeiras' teenage winger Estêvão has been urged by manager Abel Ferreira to demonstrate his skills against his future employers, Chelsea. The match, set to take place on Friday, July 7, 2025, in Philadelphia, marks a crucial point in Estêvão's career, as he prepares to transition to the Premier League club later this month.

Estêvão, who was signed by Chelsea last year for an initial €34 million (approximately $40 million), with potential add-ons bringing the total to around €67 million ($78.8 million), has remained with Palmeiras for the current season. Ferreira described Estêvão as “a spectacular kid,” emphasizing the importance of his contributions to the team during the tournament. He stated, “While he’s with us, he has tasks and commitments to fulfill. After that, he’ll be free to return to Chelsea. Until then, he’ll give his best.” Ferreira highlighted the unique situation, urging Estêvão to leave a mark before his departure.

Despite the excitement surrounding his future, Estêvão has admitted that the transition has been a source of emotional strain. “It’s been hard balancing the emotions of playing my final games for Palmeiras while also thinking about my future at Chelsea,” he revealed. This admission has drawn mixed reactions from fans and media alike, with Ferreira defending the young player’s right to feel anxious.

As Palmeiras prepares to face Chelsea, the team acknowledges the formidable challenge ahead. Ferreira candidly remarked, “To say that Chelsea are better than Palmeiras is simply being realistic.” Chelsea, the reigning UEFA Champions League winners, boast a star-studded squad, although they will be without midfielder Moisés Caicedo due to suspension. Ferreira’s belief in team unity and strategy remains steadfast, as he asserts, “No one plays alone in my teams. We run, fight, suffer, and win for each other.”

The stakes for Estêvão are high, as he aims to impress both his current and future employers. Ferreira expressed optimism about the young player’s performance, stating, “It will be an opportunity for him to show all his talent.” As Palmeiras seeks to deliver an upset against their illustrious opponents, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Estêvão, who has yet to score or assist in the tournament but is keen to make an impact.

In a tournament that has already seen surprises, with teams like Al Hilal and Fluminense eliminating Manchester City and Inter Milan respectively, Palmeiras hopes to draw inspiration from these upsets. Ferreira concluded, “The fact that Chelsea are favorites does not mean we do not also have weapons and ambition. We must face our opponents within our means, within our strategy, within our game plan.” The match promises to be a compelling encounter, with both teams eager to secure their place in the semifinals of the Club World Cup.