Chelsea fans can breathe a sigh of relief as the mystery surrounding Estêvão’s absence from the squad to face Brentford has finally been solved.
The 18-year-old Brazilian sensation was a notable omission from Liam Rosenior’s matchday squad on Saturday, leading to widespread speculation about a potential injury or a tactical fallout. However, reports have now confirmed that the youngster was sidelined due to a viral outbreak currently affecting the Chelsea camp.
Sidelined by Illness, Not Injury
According to Chelsea correspondent Bobby Vincent, Estêvão was one of several players struck down by a virus over the weekend. The decision to leave the “number 41” out of the 2-0 win over Brentford was strictly medical, as the coaching staff opted to let the player recover fully rather than risk his long-term fitness.
Estêvão isn’t the only casualty of the outbreak. Chelsea stars Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens, and Malo Gusto are also reportedly battling the same illness, leaving Rosenior with a depleted squad ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.
Fans React with Relief
Social media was flooded with concern when the lineups were announced without the former Palmeiras star. Many feared that the winger—who many fans believe should be starting over Alejandro Garnacho—had suffered a major physical setback.
The news that it is merely a viral infection has been met with relief, as the prodigy has already become a fan favorite at Stamford Bridge. Since joining in mid-2025, Estêvão has registered six goal involvements (5 goals, 1 assist) in 26 appearances, proving to be one of the most exciting talents in the Premier League.
Miguel Manjate is a football journalist and editor covering the Premier League, European competitions, and transfer news, with a strong focus on match analysis and data-driven reporting.
