Ancelotti Drops Bombshell About Estevao's 2026 World Cup Prospects
Brazil's head coach Carlo Ancelotti appears to have confirmed Estêvão's inclusion in his squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Italian tactician has praised the youngster as a "very, very special player," with Estêvão already earning 11 international appearances and netting five goals for Brazil. The 18-year-old has caught the attention of both his national team coach and Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca following his £29 million ($38 million) transfer from Palmeiras during the summer window.
Ancelotti's confidence in the Chelsea prospect is so strong that he's prepared to guarantee him a World Cup place despite any potential developments before the tournament.
"I believe so. Given Estêvão's performances over the past six months, I believe so. Estêvão will participate in the World Cup," Ancelotti stated to Esporte Record (via ESPN).
Ancelotti's Advice on Estêvão's Development Path to World Cup
Estêvão has burst onto the Premier League stage this campaign, recording five starts across 11 total outings under Maresca—including a recent appearance in the London derby versus Arsenal.
The teenager has also participated in every Champions League match to date, finding the net in his previous three outings against Ajax, Qarabağ and Barcelona. The 18-year-old represents another example of young talents across Europe making their mark at top clubs, though Ancelotti emphasized the need for regular playing time leading up to next summer.
"[Estêvão] stands out because he possesses exceptional natural ability. This doesn't mean he's fully developed given his youth. While his talent is already there, what he needs is consistency. He's developing excellently at Chelsea. I haven't discussed this with Chelsea, but I'm confident they have a tailored development plan for him," Ancelotti explained.
"The national team must capitalize on this exceptional talent."
Estêvão's 2025–26 Chelsea Campaign: Statistical Breakdown
Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
Premier League | 11 | 1 | 1 |
Champions League | 5 | 3 | 0 |
EFL Cup | 2 | 1 | 0 |
Total | 18 | 5 | 1 |
What About Vinicius Junior's World Cup Prospects?
Ancelotti also addressed Vinicius Junior's likelihood of traveling to North America next summer.
"This represents a phase in his career journey. Sometimes players, particularly those of his caliber, don't always display their full potential. He might be experiencing a slight dip. However, Vinicius will undoubtedly have a strong campaign, similar to previous years, playing a crucial role at Real Madrid. He'll be in excellent form for the World Cup," Ancelotti observed.
The Real Madrid forward has endured goal-scoring difficulties this season, going without a goal in his most recent nine matches across all competitions. Vinicius Jr finished as Ballon d'Or runner-up under Ancelotti at Los Blancos, though his relationship with incoming manager Xabi Alonso appears uncertain.
Nevertheless, Ancelotti dismissed any speculation about his absence next summer: "Vinicius will be at the World Cup."
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