Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso is facing growing criticism from supporters over his treatment of teenage winger Estevao Willian.
The controversy intensified after Estevao was left unused during Chelsea’s Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool on Wednesday, despite Cole Palmer being suspended and Joao Pedro unavailable through injury.
According to Striver Football, fans reacted furiously to the 19-year-old being an unused substitute across 120 minutes at Anfield.
The fan reaction
One fan wrote: “He has a beef with talented Brazilian. He did this to Rodrygo.”
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Another said: “Estevao over Alonso, I’m not even kidding. I don’t care what his system is, he has to find a way to make him play.”
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A third added: “If you are losing every other game and Estevao can’t get a look-in even in the Carabao Cup, then [expletive] off, fraud.”
Some criticism went beyond team selection. One supporter argued: “It’s not about Estevao only,” pointing to concerns about the team’s attacking approach and reliance on Joao Pedro and Palmer.
Another said: “The guy is conceding goals, yet he benches Estevao to improve defence.”
Not every supporter agrees. One defended Alonso: “Still backing Alonso. Supporting one doesn’t require turning on the other.”
Estevao has made eight appearances in all competitions this season but accumulated only 172 minutes, starting twice.
He is yet to start a Premier League match this campaign. According to media outlets, he has played just 47 minutes across six brief Premier League cameos.
Alonso’s defence
According to ESPN, Alonso explained he was forced into alternative late substitutions because Moises Caicedo had a physical complaint and Malo Gusto was dealing with cramps.
He emphasised the Premier League’s physical demands and noted Estevao is still adapting after earlier hamstring issues.
“I understand his situation and that he could be happier, for sure,” Alonso said. “I’m sure Estevao will have his moment. It’s my responsibility, and we need to deal with that.”
What comes next
With Chelsea eliminated from the Carabao Cup and lacking continental fixtures to rotate the squad, opportunities for fringe players are becoming scarce.
According to Football365, the lack of minutes has raised speculation that Estevao’s camp could explore loan opportunities in January if his situation fails to improve.
The situation could become more significant ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Manchester United. Another limited appearance could increase the pressure on Alonso.
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