Luis Suarez has dismissed the growing comparisons between Estevao Willian, the young Brazilian set to join Chelsea, and Lionel Messi, stating that their playing styles differ significantly. Speaking after Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw with Palmeiras in the FIFA Club World Cup on June 24, Suarez expressed admiration for Estevao’s talent but emphasized the importance of the teenager focusing on his individual growth rather than living in Messi’s shadow.
Suarez told the media,
“I think comparisons are not wise. He had to make his own name and they [Estevao and Messi] are different players. Of course, I admire his age and his personality. Playing this type of game at his age is admirable. I wish him the best because he is young and still has a lot to learn.”
Estevao Balances Excitement About Chelsea Move with Focus on Current Goals
Following the match, Estevao Willian shared his feelings about the upcoming transfer to Chelsea, calling it a dream come true while acknowledging the challenge of maintaining his current focus on Palmeiras and the FIFA Club World Cup. He spoke candidly about managing the pressure ahead of the move, saying that despite the excitement, his priority remains performing well with his current club.
He explained,
“It’s really hard. Going to Chelsea is a dream come true but knowing that I need to focus here first… it’s not easy. You have to maintain your focus here. The closer it gets, the anxiety starts to hit, the butterflies in the stomach begin. But I’m trying to focus as much as possible here, to leave everything I can on the pitch, to leave here well. I want to go with my head held high through the door, knowing that I did my very best here.”
Estevao, signed by Chelsea last summer, is scheduled to complete his move this summer after finishing his duties in the Club World Cup. The comparisons to Lionel Messi have followed him, but he remains determined to carve out his own reputation.
Memorable Moment: Estevao and Messi Exchange Shirts During the Match
Estevao also recounted the unforgettable experience of swapping jerseys with Lionel Messi at halftime during the Palmeiras-Inter Miami encounter. Playing alongside his idol on the pitch was a highlight for the young Brazilian, who has admired Messi since childhood and often played video games featuring him.
Reflecting on this moment, Estevao said,
“It was incredible, sensational. He’s a player I’ve watched play since I was little. I play with him in video game. It was an incredible pleasure to be playing on the field with him. He’s my idol and a role model for me. I learned a lot. What mattered most was our dedication, our courage to play and always fight until the end. We sought the result, which was a draw and we qualified in first place, which was our objective.”
Potential Clash in Future Tournament Stages
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and Palmeiras advanced to the knockout stage of the FIFA Club World Cup from Group A. Chelsea and Palmeiras could face each other in the quarterfinals if both teams succeed in their upcoming Round of 16 matches. This possible encounter adds an extra layer of anticipation for Estevao as he prepares to join the Premier League side.