Gary Lineker Tips Chelsea’s New Teen Sensation to Shine

Chelsea have once again flexed their financial muscle in the transfer market this summer, bringing in a host of new names as Enzo Maresca looks to turn them into genuine Premier League title contenders.

Fresh from guiding the Blues to Club World Cup glory, Maresca has used the tournament to assess his squad, giving opportunities to young talents like Liam Delap and Dario Essugo. Brazilian forward Joao Pedro also linked up with the team and instantly impressed — scoring goals in both pre-season victories over Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan. Former Chelsea star Joe Cole has already hailed Pedro as a brilliant addition to the squad.

But despite several big arrivals, it’s an 18-year-old prodigy who has captured the most attention.

João Pedro goal ✅
Andrey Santos assist ✅
Estevão penalty won ✅ pic.twitter.com/WG3OKmRqNU

— Brasil Football 🇧🇷 (@BrasilEdition) August 10, 2025

Estevao Willian: Chelsea’s “Little Bit Special” Signing

Brazilian wonderkid Estevao Willian has already made waves in West London, despite his tender age. The teenager started his first game against AC Milan and marked the occasion with his debut goal, prompting glowing praise from club legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.

Now, Gary Lineker has joined the chorus of admirers. Speaking on The Rest is Football, the former England striker said:

“Enzo Maresca’s done a fabulous job there. Finished fourth last season, Club World Cup champions. They’ve brought in Delap, Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, Estevao — the youngster who looks a little bit special — and Jorrel Hato. I definitely think Champions League places. They could be the team that goes very close to the title.”

Lineker’s comments underline the growing belief that Estevao could be one of the Premier League’s breakout stars this season.

Estevão Willian vs AC Milan

—— electric. pic.twitter.com/jZeuV45f98

— َ (@szniic) August 10, 2025

Selection Dilemma for Crystal Palace Opener

With Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Crystal Palace fast approaching, Maresca faces a welcome headache in attack. Jamie Gittens and Pedro Neto both impressed during pre-season, while Joao Pedro has been in electric form.

Yet many Chelsea supporters are calling for Estevao to be thrown straight into the starting XI, even though Maresca has cautioned that the youngster will need time to adapt to English football.

More on “Messinho” – The Nickname That Speaks Volumes

Estevão’s flair has already attracted a catchy nickname—“Messinho”, a nod to Lionel Messi—for his dribbling, composure, and creative impact. You can read more about how and why he earned this moniker in the article.

More Attacking Moves on the Horizon?

Despite the attacking depth already at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea’s recruitment drive may not be over. High-profile names such as Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho continue to be linked with moves before the transfer window slams shut.

If the club do add more firepower, Maresca could have one of the most exciting — and competitive — attacking units in the league. But for now, all eyes are on Estevao Willian, the teenager who has already shown flashes of brilliance and could prove to be Chelsea’s most exciting signing of the summer.