Estevao Willian has opened up about his lifelong connection to Chelsea FC in a new documentary released on the club's official platform. The 30-minute film, titled 'I Am Estevao', offers an intimate look at the 19-year-old Brazilian's journey from his roots in Franca to life at Stamford Bridge, featuring interviews with his family and early coaches.
"I didn’t realise. I was born with it," Estevao said. He described Chelsea as a place he always dreamed of being, detailing a year-and-a-half of hard work before his £29 million move from Palmeiras was finalised. The documentary, available exclusively on Chelsea+, was released on Thursday, October 15.
Fan affection fuels forward
Despite limited playing time under manager Xabi Alonso this season, Estevao expressed a profound gratitude for the club's supporters. "Despite the short time, I see how much affection Chelsea fans have for me," he said. He explained that this warmth makes him feel at home and motivates him to repay their faith with performances on the pitch, stating that making fans happy is his most important goal.
In the documentary, the forward reveals that he has been a Chelsea supporter since childhood, with his family sharing stories of him wearing a Chelsea shirt while playing football in the streets of Franca as a young boy. His father, in an emotional interview segment, recounts saving money to buy Estevao his first official club jersey, a moment the player describes as key in his young life.
The film also revisits key moments from his breakout debut season, including his memorable goals against Liverpool and Barcelona. Chelsea legend Thiago Silva also provides his perspective on Estevao's adaptation to English football in the documentary, praising the youngster's mentality and technical skill. Silva notes the challenges of moving from Brazilian football to the Premier League but expresses confidence in Estevao's long-term future at the club.
Additional footage includes behind-the-scenes moments from his medical and signing day at Cobham, as well as his first meeting with several senior squad members. The documentary closes with Estevao training at the club's facility, stating his ambition to become a Chelsea legend and win major trophies with the team.
Estevao's personal story unfolds as Chelsea prepare for a key Premier League fixture away to Everton this weekend. The Blues currently sit sixth in the table with 10 points from six matches, looking to build on their 5-1 victory over Bournemouth last time out. Fans can check the full fixtures list for the upcoming schedule and view the current standings. Estevao, now an established Brazilian international, aims to translate his off-field connection into more opportunities on the field as the season progresses.
This story first appeared at standard.co.uk
