Chelsea’s Estêvão “Destined for the Ballon d’Or,” Says Maresca After Sensational Premier League Start

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has hailed teenage sensation Estêvão, describing the Brazilian winger as “destined to reach the very top of world football” following his impressive start to life in the Premier League.

The 18-year-old joined Chelsea in the summer from Palmeiras for £29 million ($38.6m) after breaking Neymar’s long-standing Brazilian Serie A record for the most goal involvements by a player under 18. His reputation was already on the rise before his move, having scored against Chelsea in the Club World Cup final — his last game for Palmeiras before the London club’s triumph in that tournament.

Since his arrival, Estêvão has quickly captured the hearts of Chelsea supporters with his flair, confidence, and maturity on the ball. His standout moment came earlier this month when he netted a dramatic late winner against Liverpool, cementing his status as one of the club’s most exciting prospects.

Speaking to ESPN, Maresca admitted that even he did not expect the teenager to settle so seamlessly into English football. “He surprised us a lot with the way he adapted,” Maresca said. “He’s very young — just 18 — but he already plays with the maturity of someone far older. His understanding of the game, his movement, and his mentality are remarkable.”

Maresca added that Estêvão’s professionalism and humility off the pitch have been just as impressive as his performances on it. “He works hard every day, listens, and always wants to improve. For someone of his age, that’s very rare,” he said.

With his natural talent, strong mentality, and rapid development, Maresca believes Estêvão has all the attributes to become one of football’s greats. “If he continues like this,” he concluded, “he’s destined for the Ballon d’Or.”