Estevao Willian Chelsea. Real Madridโs decision not to pursue Estevao Willian. More aggression has become a genuine discussion point inside the club.
As the young Brazilian keeps shining for Chelsea and playing well for his country, many people in Madrid are now asking if they made a mistake by not choosing him when they had the chance.
This debate has grown because of Endrick. He was viewed as the bigger talent at the time, but he has found it hard to adapt to Spanish football. Chelsea, on the other hand, are very happy with how quickly Estevao has settled in. His strong start now affects how top clubs in Europe plan for the future and how Real Madrid think about their next transfer steps.
Estevao Willian: Chelsea and Real Madrid Rethink Their Strategy After Endrickโs Early Struggles
Reports from Defensa Central indicate that senior voices within Real Madrid are revisiting. The clubโs approach during the period when both Estevao and Endrick were emerging from Brazilโs talent pool. Madrid moved decisively for Endrick. Convinced that his athleticism, physical maturity and goal-scoring instincts would translate quickly to La Liga. But his early months in Spain have been far more challenging than expected.
Endrick has found it hard to get regular minutes. When he does play, he often struggles to make an impact. The league is fast and demanding, and he needs more time to adjust. This has affected his form and confidence.
Real Madrid are now thinking about sending him out on loan in January. They believe a loan will help him improve without the pressure of playing at the Bernabรฉu. Chelsea know about this situation and are watching him closely before the winter window.
Estevao, however, has adapted with ease at Stamford Bridge. Chelseaโs staff already see him as a key part of their future. His calm play, smart choices. And skill on the ball shows why he was rated so highly in Brazil. His bright start, compared to Endrickโs slow beginning, has created a clear gap between them. It also shows the difference between what Madrid hoped for and what they see now.
Estevao Willian Chelsea Outperforming Vinicius Junior in Europe
What has truly sharpened the internal conversation at Madrid is Estevaoโs form in the Champions League. The 18-year-old is not only proving he belongs at the highest level. He is statistically outperforming Vinicius Junior in several attacking metrics this season.
Champions League 2025/26 (via Who Scored)
| Player | Games | Minutes | Goals | Assists | Shots pg | Key passes pg | Dribbles pg |
| Estevao Willian | 4 | 225 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 1.3 | 2.3 |
| Vinicius Junior | 4 | 271 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1.5 | 1.3 |
Estevaoโs confidence, creativity and directness have made him one of Chelseaโs strongest attacking outlets. His standout performance for Brazil against Senegal. Where he notably outshone Vinicius, reinforcing the belief that he is progressing at a pace few predicted.
For Madrid, watching a player they could have signed surpass one of their established superstars only. Adds weight to the internal debate.
Authorโs Opinion
Real Madrid have built much of their success by spotting young stars before other clubs react. But with Estevao Willian, they seemed to step away from that approach. Choosing Endrick made sense, but ignoring Estevao now looks like a mistake. He has the skill, confidence, and creativity that Madrid usually looks for in a young talent.
Chelsea moved fast and showed belief in him. Now they have a teenager who already plays with the calm and quality of a future star. As his value grows. It will become much harderโand far more expensiveโfor Madrid to try to sign him later.
For now, Chelsea will enjoy the benefits of their bold decision. And Real Madrid must think about how they let Brazilโs next big talent get away.
