Chelsea winger Estevao Willian is concerned about his place in the team under manager Xabi Alonso and could ask to leave the club in January if he continues to struggle for regular playing time, according to ESPN Brasil.
The 19-year-old has told people close to him that he fears being denied consistent opportunities by the current Chelsea head coach. Estevao remains happy living in London and does not want to leave Stamford Bridge, but his position could change if he is rarely selected during the first half of the season.
Estevao prefers playing in a more central role rather than operating on the wing, where the physical demands are greater. The Brazil international is also understood to be worried that increasing his muscle mass could affect the qualities that have shaped his style.
The youngster believes becoming physically stronger could take away some of his natural lightness and force him to move away from a game based heavily on technique. Those concerns have added to his uncertainty over how he will be used under Alonso.
So far this season, Estevao has made only two Premier League appearances, totalling seven minutes. He was given a starting place in Chelsea’s League Cup match against Luton and remained on the pitch until the 80th minute before being substituted.
That limited involvement has contributed to doubts within the player’s camp about whether he will receive the regular first-team football he wants. However, there is no indication that Estevao is currently seeking an immediate departure, with his preference still to remain at Chelsea.
A request for a transfer in January would only be considered if his lack of playing time continues under Alonso. The decision would therefore depend on whether the manager begins to use him more regularly and whether Estevao feels his role allows him to play in the manner he considers most effective.
For now, the winger remains a Chelsea player and is satisfied with his life in London. His concern is centred on his sporting situation: the number of minutes available to him, the position in which he is asked to play and the physical expectations attached to that role.
Chelsea’s next decisions over Estevao’s involvement will be closely watched after his brief Premier League appearances and his start against Luton. If his opportunities remain limited, the possibility of a January transfer request could become a more serious issue for the club and player.