Estevao Willian: The Next Cole Palmer at Chelsea?

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is urging teenage sensation Estevao Willian to follow in the footsteps of Cole Palmer, suggesting a positional shift could be on the cards for the young Brazilian. Maresca believes Estevao can seamlessly transition from a right winger to an attacking midfielder, but only if he's physically ready for the demands of the Premier League.

Cole Palmer's rise at Chelsea has been meteoric since joining from Manchester City. Maresca, who coached Palmer in City's youth system, sees similarities between the two players' development. Palmer started as a winger before evolving into a central attacking force.

Will Estevao Fill Palmer's Boots?

With Palmer currently sidelined with a groin injury, many have called for Estevao to be given a chance in the number 10 role. However, Maresca believes it's too soon. He argues that Estevao, like Palmer in his early days, needs to develop the physical strength and stamina required to play centrally in the Premier League.

“I think Cole’s path has been similar to Estevao’s path in terms of starting wide as a winger. And then slowly, slowly you can move inside,” Maresca said, as reported by Metro.

The Premier League Demands Physicality

Maresca emphasized the physical demands of playing in the Premier League, particularly in a central role. “The Premier League is completely different compared to other countries in the world. If you want to play in the middle you need to be physically prepared,” he explained.

Estevao has shown flashes of brilliance on the wing, but needs to improve his consistency and decision-making in front of goal. If he can achieve that and build his physical strength, a starting spot on the flank, and eventually a move into the number 10 role, could be within his reach.

For now, patience is key. Estevao needs time to develop physically and hone his skills before he's ready to take on the responsibilities of a central attacking midfielder in the Premier League. Maresca's guidance and Palmer's example will be crucial in his development.