Chelsea’s summer signing Estevao has taken Stamford Bridge by storm, and a leaked group chat among teammates has revealed just how highly the young Brazilian is rated. Joao Pedro, the Blues’ standout forward, didn’t hold back in his praise, comparing the 18-year-old sensation to Real Madrid’s electrifying star Vinícius Jr. With Chelsea unbeaten in their opening three Premier League matches and Estevao dazzling in his early appearances, the hype around this teenage prodigy is reaching fever pitch.
Estevao, who joined Chelsea from Palmeiras in a high-profile transfer, has already made his mark. The Blues kicked off their campaign with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace, followed by a commanding 5-1 demolition of West Ham and a composed 2-0 win over Fulham. Estevao started both victories, showcasing his flair and creativity, including a pinpoint assist in the thrashing of the Hammers. His performances have sparked excitement among fans and teammates alike, with many tipping him for a glittering career at the elite level.
Joao Pedro, another Brazilian who has quickly become a fan favorite since his move from Brighton in July, has been equally impressive. The 23-year-old played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s Club World Cup triumph in the USA this summer and has carried that form into the new season. Against West Ham, Pedro was unstoppable, scoring once and providing two assists, before adding another goal in the victory over Fulham. His chemistry with Estevao and fellow Brazilian Andrey Santos has been a key factor in Chelsea’s strong start under manager Enzo Maresca.
In a candid interview with The Standard, Pedro offered a glimpse into the dynamic between the Brazilian trio, sharing insights from their group chats and training ground banter. “I’ve known Andrey for over eight years—we share the same sponsor,” Pedro revealed. “Andrey’s a funny guy; we joke around a lot. Estevao, though, he’s shy. It’s tough for him to adapt to a new country. I’m always pushing him to order his breakfast in English!”
Pedro also spoke about mentoring Estevao, ensuring the youngster stays grounded while adjusting to the Premier League’s relentless physicality. “Sometimes training feels too long for him, and he’s knackered before gym sessions,” Pedro said. “I don’t always need to hit the gym myself, but I go with him because it’s crucial for his development. He knows how demanding this league is. Me and Andrey are always there to push him.”
When asked what sets Estevao apart, Pedro’s response was emphatic: “Mate, he’s from the street. You can see it in his play—he’s so natural. Tosin [Adarabioyo] came up to me and said, ‘Joao, wow. Estevao is amazing.’ Playing for Brazil and Chelsea at 18? That’s unreal. He’s going to be like Vinícius Jr.”
The comparison to Vinícius, one of the world’s most dynamic wingers, speaks volumes about Estevao’s potential. Like the Real Madrid star, Estevao combines blistering pace, technical brilliance, and a fearless approach that makes him a nightmare for defenders. His early performances suggest he could become a cornerstone of Chelsea’s ambitious project under Maresca.
The Brazilian trio’s bond extends beyond the pitch, as all three have earned call-ups to the Brazil national team for upcoming World Cup qualifiers. They’ll face Chile at home on Thursday before traveling to Bolivia the following Wednesday. After international duty, the focus will shift back to club football, with Chelsea set to face Brentford in a West London derby on September 13. Four days later, the Blues kick off their Champions League campaign with a blockbuster clash against Bayern Munich in Germany.
As Chelsea’s Brazilian stars continue to shine, the leaked group chat has only fueled the excitement surrounding Estevao. If Joao Pedro’s prediction is anything to go by, the Premier League may have just welcomed its next global superstar—one who could rival the brilliance of Vinícius Jr. for years to come.