Estevao seizes his chance as Chelsea beat Manchester United 2-0
Estevao Willian marked his first Premier League start of the season with a standout performance, while Morgan Rogers' solo goal helped Chelsea to a 2-0 win over Manchester United.
Estevao Willian made his first Premier League start of the season in Chelsea's 2-0 win over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge, and the 19-year-old winger delivered the kind of display that had been anticipated since his £38m move from Palmeiras. Chelsea supporters chanted a tongue-in-cheek nickname for him early in the match, and he rewarded them with an energetic 86-minute performance in a team that started without a recognised striker.
The Brazil international had a goal ruled out for offside and saw a second-half near-post finish disallowed in what the article describes as a marginal decision. He finished with six shots, joint-most by a Chelsea player in a Premier League match this season, along with 12 touches in the opposition box, three chances created, eight crosses and five completed dribbles. He left to a standing ovation and a hug from head coach Xabi Alonso.
Before Saturday, Estevao had made only one start this season, against Luton Town in the Carabao Cup in September. That limited involvement prompted speculation in the Brazilian media that he was unhappy or seeking a move, but sources at Chelsea and close to the player have indicated no signs of discontent. Praise for his professionalism behind the scenes has been widespread, with his limited minutes attributed to the form of Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro and to Chelsea's tendency to protect early leads with defensive substitutions.
Alonso said the decision to start Estevao was made in the aftermath of the previous weekend's home defeat by Tottenham and that the player knew in advance. "He has had the best response to show that he deserves more," Alonso said, adding that Estevao was close to scoring and fought hard before tiring.
Chelsea had looked rudderless until Rogers took control in the 50th minute, receiving from Romeo Lavia and dribbling through the United defence before chipping Senne Lammens. TNT Sports pundit Joe Cole described the moment as "Gascoigne-esque". Rogers, deployed up front again, now has six goals and four assists this season and became the second Premier League player after Erling Haaland to reach 10 goal involvements. Palmer sealed the win from the penalty spot.
United, managed by Michael Carrick, had dominated the first half but failed to take their chances. Chelsea still face serious problems, including eight players absent before kick-off, with Joao Pedro's thigh injury arguably the most damaging short term. Alonso said his side will "look very different" and be "better" by the end of the season.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
