Coach Enzo Maresca expressed great admiration for the young prospect Estevao Willian following the Brazilian’s impactful substitute appearance that contributed significantly to Chelsea’s 3-0 win against Wolves.
Before the second half began, the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge was somewhat tense. Although Chelsea dominated the bottom-placed Wolves, they failed to convert chances into goals. Boos echoed from the stands at halftime, reflecting fans’ frustration with the team’s lackluster performance.
Everything changed after Malo Gusto headed in the opener in the 51st minute, and the entrance of Estevao Willian electrified the crowd. The 18-year-old immediately made his mark by assisting Joao Pedro to extend the lead to 2-0. Beyond scoring, Estevao brought the energy, pace, and creativity Chelsea had been missing.
“Honestly, I was quite worried before this match. These are the games where you’re most likely to slip up because everyone expects an easy win,” Maresca commented after the game. “I understand why the fans were disappointed in the first half. But when Estevao came on, everything shifted. He brought energy, emotion, and confidence that everyone loves.”
Estevao is gradually proving his value since his move from Brazil last summer. Coach Maresca revealed the young player is still adjusting to life in England and even “complains about the cold London weather”, but his performance on the field “is blazing” quite literally.
“You can clearly see his talent,” Maresca added. “We are working to help Estevao adapt, giving him appropriate playing time. He will definitely be a starter in the near future.”
Besides Estevao, newcomer Alejandro Garnacho also impressed with two assists, including the pass that set up Pedro Neto’s goal to seal the 3-0 scoreline. Maresca praised: “He came from Manchester United with less fitness. Now Garnacho has improved a lot. He understands that to play for Chelsea, he must perform well both on and off the ball.”
On Wolves’ side, interim coach James Collins remained optimistic despite the loss. “The players stayed united and gave their all. We know there’s still work to do, but the season isn’t over. A defeat to Chelsea won’t decide Wolves’ fate,” he stated.
The 3-0 win not only earned three points but also marked significant progress in Chelsea’s style of play, especially with energetic young talents like Estevao Willian and Garnacho in the squad.