Xabi Alonso is facing his first Chelsea crisis and it could lead to the unthinkable
IN FOCUS : Hailed as Chelsea’s next great entertainer six months ago, Estevao is facing an uncertain future under Alonso, who faced dissent from supporters at Anfield after leaving the exciting Brazilian on the bench. By Richard Jolly
Xabi Alonso, Chelsea's manager, is finding himself in a crisis similar to those he encountered previously. The new manager has been dealing with issues that echo those he faced at Real Madrid, where a Brazilian player was marginalized. Similar to Endrick and Vinicius Junior at Real Madrid, Estevao has been unhappy with his role at Chelsea.
Despite Alonso's calm responses, Estevao hasn't been given many opportunities to play. In the Carabao Cup, Estevao played only 47 minutes in a loss to Liverpool, and just 18 minutes in the Premier League. Chelsea's campaign, without European football and now with a lone domestic cup competition, will not last long. Alonso has started Estevao's main competitor, Joao Pedro, in the lineup, but Estevao was left out for the entire game at Anfield.
The pattern of Estevao being overlooked for game time continues, despite his talent. The manager's approach, with a striker-less side and starting young attackers, may not be ideal for Estevao's development. Estevao is believed to be interested in a transfer in January, and if his lack of game time persists, he may seek a move elsewhere.
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