Estevao Willian grew up playing football on dirt pitches in Franca, Brazil. His father, Ivo Goncalves, organised training sessions where the youngster practiced dribbling to avoid a family rottweiler. According to The Guardian, this unconventional method helped refine the player's close control and agility from an early age.
Chelsea reached an agreement to sign the 17-year-old from Palmeiras in June 2024 for an initial fee of £29m. The deal includes performance-related add-ons that could see the total cost rise to £52m, per Sky Sports. The forward remains at Palmeiras until the conclusion of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup before moving to London.
Former Chelsea defender Thiago Silva reportedly spoke with the teenager regarding the move. The veteran centre-back provided advice on adapting to the English game and life at Stamford Bridge. Estevao became the youngest player to score for Palmeiras in the Copa Libertadores during his rapid ascent in South American football.
