He has been shining for a few weeks, but his words are already resonating with amazing insurance. While Chelsea is preparing to welcome the Brazilian prodigy Estevão, the latter has allowed a declaration that makes controversial. Compared to Lionel Messi, he sparked a wave of reactions as skeptical as they are mocking.
Questioned by the Spanish newspaper as on his personal ambitions, Estevão replied without detour: “I see my style of play similar to that of Messi. »» A comparison that surprised more than one, as it seems premature. Because if he was one of the strong men of Palmeiras at the Club World Cup, the 17 -year -old winger has never walked the lawns from a European championship. And yet, here he is what evokes in the same breath the idea of fighting with Yamal and Mastanuono for the Ballon d'Or.
Estevão, an ego that swells too quickly?
This outing could pass for ambition, but it mostly betrays a form of precipitation. Admittedly, Estevão is not the first to dream in large, nor the last to claim to be heir to the Argentinian genius. But where others show humility, already seems to him to believe that he belongs to this caste. Compared to Brazil, raised to the rank of phenomenon, he gives the impression of believing that everything is allowed to him. However, in Chelsea, he will discover a differently more demanding universe.
Estevão's talent is not in question. Its speed, technique and flair have already attracted London recruiters. But European football does not forgive the words too large or the promises not held. If the Brazilian wants to avoid becoming a shooting star, he will quickly have to prove that he has as much talent as verve. In the meantime, it would be better to measure the gap between the icon that is Messi and his own stretch course.
