Chelsea-bound Estevao Willian played against his future club when he faced Chelsea in the Club World Cup quarter-finals.

The 18-year-old had a good game and even scored Palmeiras’ only goal.

Enzo Maresca was impressed by Estevao’s talent and acknowledged that the young player will need time to adapt to the team’s style.

“I spoke with him for the first time after the game,” Maresca said after the game.

“I told him that it’s been the perfect night because we won, he scored.

“So it’s been perfect for us and for him.”

Maresca added that Estevao is a “huge talent” and a “fantastic player,” and the team will help him adapt to the new environment.

Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira couldn’t hold back his emotions as he paid tribute to Estevao Willian following the teenager’s dazzling performance against Chelsea.

Despite the Brazilian side falling short, Ferreira was full of admiration for the starlet who is set to join Chelsea ahead of next season.

In a touching post-match press conference, Ferreira revealed a private conversation he had with Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca before the game, offering an emotional insight into Estevao’s character and potential.
“I spoke before with Maresca and told him, ‘You bought an amazing player but more than this you bought an amazing person’,” Ferreira shared.

“You need to take care of him. You need to embrace him and in the beginning for sure he will make mistakes.”