Facing one Palmer is already a nightmare for any opposition – but facing two versions of him is an entirely different problem. Estevao, who has adapted far quicker than most expected since making his debut, mirrors Palmer’s style in many ways.
Having Palmer and Estevao in the same team is the kind of “problem” every manager dreams of. Their abilities complement each other perfectly, and once they consistently line up together, and understand each others style of play, opposition defences are going to be in serious trouble.
Since the Brazilian’s arrival from Palmeiras, Palmer and Estevao have only been in the Chelsea starting lineup together twice. The first came in a pre-season friendly against Bayern Leverkusen, a 2-0 win in which Estevao scored his first Chelsea goal.
The second was in the 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford, a match derailed early after goalkeeper Robert Sánchez was judged to have recklessly brought down Bryan Mbeumo – a tackle that earned him a red card, forcing both players to be substituted before the 20 minute mark and completely altering the flow of the game.
Amongst Chelsea supporters, there was a strong feeling that if both players had remained on the pitch and ridden out Manchester United’s early pressure, Chelsea might have gone on to secure a massive victory.
Why Palmer and Estevao in the Same Team is a Game-Changer
The duo playing together not only adds extra creativity in attack, but they also elevate Chelsea’s overall fluidity, tempo, and unpredictability. Their crisp movement on the ball and sharp link-up play, which they have shown in the short time they have been together, creates a dynamic threat that forces opponents to constantly readjust.
In the Premier League, lower-table teams fighting relegation would often set up to face the Blues with a deep back five, sit compact, and rely on counter-attacks and set pieces – particularly long throws – to gain any sort of advantage. That kind of setup can be extremely difficult to break down.
But with Palmer and Estevao in the same team, combining their dynamic attacking prowess, they could dismantle even the most stubborn low block. Their sharp movement, quick feet and interchanges, and ability to create chances in tight spaces give Chelsea the creativity and unpredictability needed to unlock defensive walls and turn frustrating matches into comfortable victories.
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Managerial Vision: Using Both Players in One System
The transition of Cole Palmer – who began on the right wing before drifting inside to operate as a 10 – is also a path the Blues head coach Enzo Maresca envisions for the Brazilian wonderkid. The Italian speaking ahead of the Blues clash with Manchester United in September said:
“Estevao can be great in all the attacking positions because his talent is very good, he’s a top player, but at the same time he’s 18 years old so he needs a little bit of time.
“But I think both Estevao and Cole can play wide, and they both can play as a No. 10. I feel very lucky to have both of them with us.”
Palmer, can play as a right winger and Estevao as a 10, and vice versa. The versatility of both players is a major asset for the team, as it allows Maresca to adjust systems fluidly, rotate roles seamlessly. With Palmer and Estevao in the same team, Maresca can create multiple attacking shapes without disrupting the team’s balance. Their ability to operate in various positions gives Chelsea tactical flexibility and makes them far harder for opponents to predict or contain.
Estevao’s national team manager, Carlo Ancelotti, also showered praise on him for his efforts during Brazil’s games during the November international break.
“Estevao has an incredible amount of talent. It’s a surprise, this level at his age.
“He’s good at finishing, has a lot of magic and he works very hard. I can say this: with Estevao, Brazil have a guaranteed future.”
“He’s a very talented player. He is able to show every game, in Chelsea too, and he doesn’t need a lot of minutes to show his quality.”
The high praise from top managers highlights that Estevao has an exceptionally high ceiling, with some even suggesting he could be a future Ballon d’Or contender, as stated in the clause when Chelsea signed him.
For him to reach that level, he needs to continue developing his consistency, sharpen his decision-making in the final third and have a positive impact in big games. Having Palmer and Estevao in the same team provides the perfect platform for that growth, as their combined creativity, understanding, and link-up play could unlock more opportunities, allowing both players to shine while pushing each other to reach their full potential.
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Estevao’s Brilliance Outshines Yamal
In Round five of the Champions League games, the highly anticipated clash of Chelsea vs Barcelona also featured a thrilling duel between two of the world’s brightest young talents in Estevao vs Yamal. It was the Brazilian who stole the show, weaving past Pau Curbasi and Alejandro Balde before smashing the ball into the top corner with his weaker foot to give the Blues a two-goal cushion.
His goal saw him become only the third teenager to score in each of his first three Champions League starts, behind Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.
It wasn’t just the goal that made him stand out – it was his relentless drive to take on defenders every time he had the ball. So far, in a Blues shirt, he has contributed six G/A across all competitions. With Palmer and Estevao in the same team, he is set to receive even more opportunities to boost his season’s tally.
Conclusion
Chelsea fans will be licking their lips knowing fully well they have got that attacking combo that would scare any defence in Europe. Having a fully fit Palmer and Estevao in the same team is no fun for the opposition. Together, Chelsea looks far more dangerous, cohesive, and difficult to contain.
And with Palmer returning from a groin injury that has kept him out for months, the Blues will be happy to welcome him back into the fold, as he might make an appearance in their next game against Arsenal.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Visionhaus
Recording Date: 08.08.2025
