Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea may still be outside the Premier League’s top four, but their 2-1 victory over league leaders Liverpool lifted spirits at Stamford Bridge heading into the October international break — and Manchester City striker Erling Haaland was particularly impressed by one Blues youngster after their dramatic late win.
Maresca had come under fire after a string of losses — 3-1 to Bayern Munich, 2-1 to Manchester United, and 3-1 to Brighton — but the triumph over Liverpool eased some of the pressure on the Italian coach. Moises Caicedo opened the scoring with a thunderous strike in the 14th minute before Cody Gakpo equalised just after the hour mark. However, teenage star Estevao stole the show, arriving at the back post to convert Marc Cucurella’s cross and seal victory in stoppage time.
The Stamford Bridge crowd erupted in celebration, with even Maresca joining the jubilant pile-up — earning himself a second yellow card in the process. Estevao, nicknamed “Messinho” for his low centre of gravity and explosive dribbling reminiscent of Lionel Messi, collapsed to the turf in delight after the final whistle.
The celebrations were well-earned. Chelsea had gone a month without a league win, and Estevao’s late heroics marked his true breakthrough for the Europa Conference League and Club World Cup holders. Haaland was among those impressed — the City forward posted a photo of the Brazilian celebrating on Snapchat, calling him a “wonderkid,” giving his approval to the emerging star.
With Cole Palmer sidelined, Estevao’s performance suggested he could shoulder more responsibility in key moments for Maresca’s side. The 18-year-old, who officially joined Chelsea this summer after turning 18, had already built a strong reputation in Brazil — becoming the youngest-ever ESPN Brazil Player of the Year and earning senior international caps and a goal for his country.
Since arriving in England, Estevao has registered a goal and an assist in nine appearances. His decisive strike against Liverpool could mark the beginning of a breakout spell for Chelsea’s latest teenage sensation.
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