Chelsea sign ‘best Brazilian since Neymar’ as Maresca announces next arrival

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 5 Jul 2025 10:23 BST
• 6 min read

News

Chelsea have been told that they have signed the “best Brazilian since Neymar” while Enzo Maresca has revealed the identity of the next addition for the West London club following a 2-1 win over Palmeiras at the Club World Cup.

The Blues squeezed through to the semi-final of the competition with a narrow victory over the Brazilian side, which came about via a late own goal. Previously, Willian Estevao had equalised for the South Americans after the Premier League giants led through Cole Palmer.

Praise for Estevao

It was the performance of Estevao that really got fans excited, with the teenager set to move to Stamford Bridge for €33.5 million following the competition.

He claimed FIFA’s Superior Player of the Match award and won praise from both Blues boss Maresca and Palmer.

“He is very good, a huge talent, fantastic player. The only thing is when you come from South America or another part of the world is that you need to adapt,” the manager said.

“We are going to help him to adapt, be happy and enjoy football. We have no doubt he will be an important player for Chelsea.”

Palmer added: “You can see he is a top player, so it is very exciting.

“I just said we are excited for you to join, but he didn't understand a single word I said.”

Joao Paulo Sampaio, the head of Palmeiras’ academy, was even more forthcoming with his praise as he spoke to BBC Sport: “"Estevao is the best player to have emerged from Brazilian football since Neymar. You watch him and you fall in love.

“He already impresses with his technique but, like Neymar at this same point in his career, he has not yet matured physically and is not as strong as Endrick, so he could still develop a lot. That's what amazes everyone and makes them think that he will reach a much higher level.”

Maresca announces next deal

Jamie Gittens, another future Chelsea star, was also present in Philadelphia to watch the game.

The Blues have not yet officially announced his arrival, despite Borussia Dortmund confirming the move, but Maresca moved to confirm it following the victory.

“Jamie was here tonight, he was on the pitch, and he will be with us for one more day and then will go on holiday,” the coach said.

Chelsea will face Fluminense in the Club World Cup semi-finals on Tuesday.

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