Estevão Willian has quickly become a fan favourite at Chelsea, with supporters calling for the young Brazilian to receive more opportunities under head coach Xabi Alonso.
However, according to a report by Football London on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, the teenager has revealed that his biggest challenge since moving to Stamford Bridge has had little to do with playing time.
Alonso has overseen six matches in all competitions so far, with Friday’s clash against Brentford set to be his seventh before the international break. Chelsea have won four of those games and suffered one defeat.
Despite that record, Estevão has started just twice under the Spaniard, with both appearances coming in the Carabao Cup. His most recent start lasted only 45 minutes, as Chelsea found themselves 2-0 down before producing an impressive 6-3 comeback.
Reports have suggested that Estevão is frustrated by his limited opportunities and is reluctant to change positions. Alonso’s 3-4-2-1 system does not naturally accommodate traditional wingers, which has made it difficult for the Brazilian to secure a regular role.
But Estevão says his biggest struggle at Chelsea has been something entirely different.
The 19-year-old revealed that adjusting to London’s cold weather has been particularly difficult since his arrival from Palmeiras. Speaking to Footballer Fits, the £29 million signing described joining Chelsea and living in London as a privilege, but admitted that the low temperatures were a major adjustment.
Estevão explained that he had never experienced weather that cold before, making the transition to life in England more challenging than expected.
Despite that, the Brazilian insists his time in London has brought far more positive experiences than negative ones.
His lack of regular playing time could eventually attract interest from other major European clubs. Liverpool and Barcelona have previously been loosely linked with the Brazil international, although there is currently no indication that Chelsea are preparing to part ways with him.
Chelsea would reportedly demand around £103 million if they ever decided to sell Estevão. Such a fee would make him the second-most expensive departure in the club’s history, behind Enzo Fernández.
For now, Estevão’s focus remains on adapting to English football, dealing with the weather and earning more opportunities under Alonso. His playing time between now and January could become an increasingly important talking point around Stamford Bridge.
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