Mikel urges Alonso to give frustrated Chelsea star Estevao more minutes
Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has called on manager Xabi Alonso to increase playing time for 19-year-old Brazilian winger Estevao, who risks leaving Stamford Bridge due to frustration over limited opportunities.
Estevao joined from Palmeiras in summer 2025 and impressed with eight goals and four assists in his debut season before a hamstring injury in April ruled him out of Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad. This season, he sits behind Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer, and Joao Pedro in Alonso's attacking pecking order.
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel said: "Okay, maybe don't start him in games. But bring him on in the second half because he's brilliant... The last thing we want to see him do is to leave the football club." Rumors suggest Estevao is considering an exit if his role doesn't change.
For Nigerian fans, this highlights a legend advocating for a young talent at a club where Mikel won everything. The situation mirrors broader challenges African and South American youngsters face breaking into established Premier League squads.
Will Chelsea protect their investment by integrating Estevao gradually, or risk losing another promising forward to a rival who guarantees minutes?