Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed that teenage sensation Estêvão Willian will miss the Blues’ high-stakes Premier League encounter against Newcastle United this Saturday. The 18-year-old Brazilian, who has been one of the standout performers of the 2025/26 campaign, sustained a “minor muscular problem” that saw him excluded from the squad during Tuesday’s 3–1 Carabao Cup quarter-final victory over Cardiff City.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday morning, Maresca confirmed the injury is not long-term but emphasized the need for caution with the youngster’s recovery.
“It’s a small problem, a muscle problem. He won’t be available for Newcastle. We will see for the next one,” Maresca told reporters. “I think he can be available for the next one [against Aston Villa on December 27].”
Estêvão’s absence is a significant loss for a Chelsea side looking to solidify its 4th-place position (28 points). Since arriving from Palmeiras, the winger has contributed five goals and one assist in 21 appearances, often serving as a dynamic spark from the bench or as a tactical starter. In his absence, Pedro Neto is expected to retain his spot on the right wing after scoring against Cardiff, while Alejandro Garnacho—who netted a brace on Tuesday—is pushing for a start on the left.
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