Enzo Maresca’s choices in the Champions League loss to Atalanta raised a few eyebrows among Chelsea fans.
The Blues finished the match with both Reece James and Malo Gusto, usually full-backs, playing in midfield. Meanwhile, Andrey Santos remained unused on the bench.
Estevao Willian also stayed on the sidelines, despite having scored in his previous three Champions League appearances.
Maresca explained that he wanted another defender on the pitch, which kept Estevao out of the game. But with one substitution still available, some supporters were left questioning that call.
Estevao Willian’s reaction to being left out of Chelsea lineup
According to the Mail Online, the Brazilian’s reaction to staying on the bench was clear.
They reported that Estevao hid his face in frustration after realising he wouldn’t be getting on, while also noting he had been looking forward to debuting his new Nike boots, inspired by Ronaldinho.
His next chance might come against Everton, but with plenty of competition for places on the wing, nothing is guaranteed.
Maresca needs to start picking his best side if Chelsea are going to turn things around. Even so, it seems likely that Estevao will be part of that setup sooner rather than later.
Why Chelsea should pair Estevao and palmer against Everton
Cole Palmer didn’t make the trip to Italy with the rest of the squad, still working his way back from a lengthy injury layoff.
Resting him was probably the right call, but given how much Chelsea need a result right now, Palmer should be in the lineup against Everton.
Estevao should also be starting, which would mean another player moves to the bench. The decision then becomes who lines up on the left flank.
Alejandro Garnacho is one of the options and will no doubt have memories of his remarkable overhead kick against Everton still fresh in his mind.
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