Brazil and Chelsea winger Estevao faces an uncertain future for the upcoming World Cup after it was confirmed he will miss the remainder of the season with a hamstring injury.
The 19-year-old forward sustained the injury during the first half of Chelsea's 1-0 loss to Manchester United at Stamford Bridge last week. The injury forced him off the pitch after just 16 minutes of play.
Chelsea interim coach Calum McFarlane confirmed the news on Friday, though he did not provide a specific timeframe for the player's recovery.
“Estevao unfortunately won’t play for us this season because he is going to be out for a little bit of time. That’s really unfortunate, especially for someone so young and so talented,” McFarlane said.
McFarlane noted that while the player remains hopeful for the tournament, the coaching staff cannot guarantee his availability. “I am sure he is very hopeful he can make the World Cup, but I don’t know on that,” he added.
Estevao subsequently missed Tuesday’s 3-0 defeat to Brighton. Former coach Liam Rosenior revealed last week that the teenager was in tears after being taken off during the Manchester United fixture.
While specific recovery timelines were not provided, reports indicate that hamstring injuries can take several weeks to recover from, or months in the most severe cases.
The setback impacts Brazil's preparations for the World Cup, which begins June 11. Brazil is scheduled to play their first match against Morocco at New York/New Jersey Stadium on June 13.
Estevao joined Chelsea from Palmeiras last year and has scored eight goals this season. He was expected to be part of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the tournament held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico after scoring five times in his last six international appearances.
The injury is the latest blow to the Brazilian national team, which will also be without Real Madrid winger Rodrygo due to a torn ACL and meniscus in his right knee.
Chelsea prepares to face Leeds in the semifinals of the FA Cup this Sunday. The club is also monitoring the fitness of Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro, both of whom are in contention to play as they continue to recover from injuries.
