Estevao Willian’s rapid rise with both Chelsea and Brazil has been remarkable, and while it’s still early days to draw comparisons, the Neymar parallels are hard to ignore.
Chelsea have a serious talent on their hands. Against Tunisia, Estevao once again looked like Brazil’s top player, continuing to back up the buzz that’s building around him.
He’s now up to nine goals this season across club and country. And at just 18 years old, he has already become an important piece for Carlo Ancelotti.
Troy Deeney mentioned just last week how Estevao reminds him of a young Neymar. And there are some similarities – a young winger full of skill making his mark early on the international stage.
But Estevao might not be following in Neymar’s footsteps – he could be setting his own path entirely.
Estevao Willian matching pace with Pele’s early Brazil record
Estevao is already on a similar track to Pele. On Friday, he became the youngest Brazilian since Pele to reach five goals for the national team.
Pele is widely seen as the greatest player in Brazil’s history and arguably the best of all time. His international career stands alone, with three World Cups in 1958, 1962, and 1970. He scored 77 goals in 92 appearances for Brazil and still holds legendary status on the global stage.
While Estevao has a long way to go before any serious comparisons can be made, his early form suggests he could have a special career ahead.
Estevao Willian’s Brazil rise for Chelsea is mirroring Pele, not Neymar
Estevao Willian is living up to the hype. While he’s not quite at Neymar’s level yet, Troy Deeney recently noted similarities between their paths, which tells you just how impressive his start has been.
Despite some questions about Chelsea’s fee at the time, it quickly became clear that they were onto something. Even after a slow start, the talent was obvious, and over time, he grew into a regular contributor for both club and country.
Still only 18, Estevao had a breakthrough year with Brazil in his debut season. He scored six goals in six games in 2026 and carried that form into January friendlies against Scotland and Romania.
Having now opened his senior campaign with two goals against Serbia and Ireland already this year, he is growing into an undroppable figure for Ancelotti.
Neymar scored four goals in his first eight international appearances back in 2010-11. Estevao has managed six goals from nine appearances so far this season.
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