Stamford Bridge vibrated on Tuesday evening, but it was on the CBS Sports set that the match continued. After Chelsea’s demonstration against FC Barcelona (3-0) and this magnificent solo goal from Estevao, Thierry Henry was full of praise for the Brazilian prodigy. The former Gunner, used to analyzing world-class wingers, saw something special in the Blues player. He even indulged in an extremely flattering comparison, evoking a hallowed Premier League name to describe the impact and mentality of the young striker. An outing that sets the bar very high for a player who is just discovering European games.
A reference that weighs heavily
The name dropped by “Titi”? Ryan Giggs, no less. For Henry, Estevao shares the Manchester United legend’s unique ability to harass his defender relentlessly. “He reminds me, I know it’s the beginning, Ryan Giggs because he was coming at you all game“, analyzed the Frenchman. The idea here is not to compare left feet, but this “boxer” mentality which throws jabs until the opponent is exhausted. Whether the Brazilian is having a good day or a bad day, he continues to provoke, constantly testing the resistance of the opposing full-back until he breaks down mentally and physically.
If Henry also cited Bukayo Saka or Michael Olise to illustrate this profile of instinctive dribblers who must be “let cook”, the parallel with the Welshman seems a bit premature, even exaggerated. Ryan Giggs has exceptional longevity and a trophy cabinet full to the brim at Old Trafford. Henry, who faced the Mancunian winger during his great years at Arsenal, knows full well the weight of such a legacy. Comparing a rookie, however talented he may be, to a sacred monster who ruled England for two decades is a risky gamble that puts immense pressure on Estevao’s shoulders.
Already historic beginnings
That said, the figures are beginning to prove the current enthusiasm. By scoring against Barça, Estevao became the third player in history to find the net in his first three appearances in the Champions League, joining a very exclusive club made up of Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé. Henry also insists on the need to protect this raw talent: “The kid’s first quality is dribbling. Why take it away from him? ». For the consultant, this type of creative player should not be locked into overly scripted tactical plans.
Time will tell if Estevao has what it takes to follow in the footsteps of the legendary Welshman or if he was just another comet. Chelsea, who are aiming for first place in the group, will need this audacity for their next perilous trips to Italy against Atalanta and Naples. The Brazilian has the talent, the recklessness and now the blessing of Thierry Henry. It remains to transform the test over time, which is often the hardest in the Premier League.
