This story has moved on: Chelsea lose to Liverpool on penalties in Carabao Cup

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 31 Oct, 00:03 · Archive

Xabi Alonso has ruled out a January loan move for Chelsea winger Estêvão Willian, saying the Brazilian must adapt to his style of play.

Estêvão Willian has struggled for playing time since Xabi Alonso's arrival as Chelsea manager in the summer, starting just twice in 11 matches across all competitions this season. The 19-year-old Brazilian has managed only 47 minutes in the Premier League. The winger was an unused substitute in Chelsea's Carabao Cup loss to Liverpool on penalties on Wednesday, prompting debate about his future at the club.

Alonso addressed the speculation on Friday, ruling out a loan move in January. 'No discussions about that,' he said when asked about a temporary departure. 'It's no secret that all players want to be on the pitch. When any of them haven't had enough minutes because of my decision, I have to take the responsibility for that. But everyone has to be ready because in any game they could be important.'

The manager praised Estêvão's professionalism. 'Este, his training and his attitude has been good,' Alonso said. The Brazilian international was called up by Brazil on Thursday, less than 24 hours after his omission from the Chelsea squad to face Liverpool.

Estêvão joined Chelsea from Palmeiras last year for £51.4 million and impressed in his first season, scoring eight goals in 36 appearances and notably scoring against Barcelona. He suffered a hamstring injury that prevented him from going to the World Cup, and has struggled since returning to fitness. Despite his difficulties under Alonso, the manager indicated he expects the teenager to adapt to his tactical approach and earn a regular place.

How it is being reported

• Xabi Alonso rules out January loan move for Chelsea winger Estêvão Willian‘No discussions about that … Everyone has to be ready’ Brazilian has started only twice in 11 games this season Xabi Alonso has ruled out a January move for Estêvão Willian but has said the Chelsea youngster must adapt to his style of play before earning a regular spot in the team. The debate around Estêvão’s role gathered momentum this week, with the noise growing after the 19-year-old watched as an unused substitute as Alonso’s side lost to Liverpool on penalties in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday. The Brazilian became an instant hit with Chelsea fans after joining from Palmeiras last year…Guardian Football · 30 Oct, 22:30
• Why Estevao isn't playing for Chelsea as key Xabi Alonso concern revealed amid transfer worryBrazilian wonderkid has been tipped to leave west London as early as January with opportunities limited under new managerEvening Standard · 30 Oct, 17:43
• 5 Brazilian wonderkids Liverpool's new transfer chief may attempt to signLiverpool's latest signing could have a big hand in shaping the club's future transfer business as he prepares for a move to Anfield in January 2027Mirror Sport · 30 Oct, 07:00

In this story: Estêvão Willian · Xabi Alonso · Chelsea · Brazil

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