Fri Jul 04 21:20:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Chelsea Favored in Club World Cup Clash Against Palmeiras, Future Chelsea Star Estevao in the Spotlight**

**Philadelphia, PA – July 4, 2025** – Chelsea is heavily favored to win its Club World Cup quarterfinal match against Palmeiras on Friday at Lincoln Financial Field, but all eyes will be on 18-year-old winger Estevao Willian. The young Brazilian is slated to join the London club after the tournament, creating a unique dynamic as he prepares to face his future team.

Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira acknowledged the challenge his team faces, stating, “To say that Chelsea are better than Palmeiras is simply being realistic. They came here and bought our best player.” However, he emphasized the importance of teamwork and fighting spirit, adding, “We run, fight, suffer, and win for each other.”

Estevao, considered one of the most promising talents to emerge from Brazil since Neymar, was signed by Chelsea last year for a reported 34 million euros, with potential bonuses that could raise the total to 67 million. He admitted the situation has been a distraction, saying, “It’s been hard balancing the emotions of playing my final games for Palmeiras while also thinking about my future at Chelsea.”

Despite the challenges, Ferreira expressed confidence in Estevao’s commitment and talent. “While he’s with us, he has tasks and commitments to fulfil. After that, he’ll be free to return to Chelsea. Until then, he’ll give his best…It will be an opportunity for him to show all his talent.”

Chelsea, entering the match as UEFA Conference League winners, will be without midfielder Moises Caicedo due to suspension. Palmeiras, looking to continue the tournament’s trend of upsets after Al Hilal and Fluminense eliminated Manchester City and Inter Milan, respectively, will rely on Estevao and its team unity to overcome the odds.

Ferreira concluded, “The fact that Chelsea are favorites does not mean that we do not also have weapons and ambition. We must face our opponents within our means, within our strategy, within our game plan.” The match promises to be a compelling encounter with Estevao Willian at the center of attention.

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