Chelsea’s Estevao races for fitness as World Cup hopes hang by Moronfolu Adeyemi
Estevao Willian has returned to Brazil to continue rehabilitation from a hamstring injury, with his place in the national team’s World Cup squad now uncertain.
The Chelsea FC winger travelled to São Paulo to use facilities at former club Palmeiras as he pushes for a timely recovery.
The 19-year-old has been sidelined since April 18 after sustaining the injury during Chelsea’s defeat to Manchester United.
Despite the switch in location, Chelsea remain in full control of his rehabilitation, with the club reportedly deploying medical staff to oversee his treatment programme.
The injury comes at a critical time for the Brazil international, who had established himself as a key attacking option under Carlo Ancelotti.
Brazil are set to open their World Cup campaign against Morocco national team on June 13, leaving the winger with limited time to regain full fitness.
The five-time champions are grouped alongside Morocco, Scotland and Haiti.
Estevao had been widely expected to make the squad before the setback, following a strong debut season in England.
Since joining Chelsea from Palmeiras, he has scored eight goals in 36 appearances across all competitions, emerging as one of the club’s standout young players.
His absence has coincided with inconsistent form for Chelsea, with the club now balancing his long-term fitness against the risk of rushing him back too soon.
