Following Chelsea’s impressive 3-0 Champions League win against Barcelona, Thierry Henry compared standout winger Estevao to Manchester United icon Ryan Giggs for his relentless attacking play.
According to a report from Football London by Luke Thrower, Chelsea’s monumental 3-0 victory over Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday night was highlighted by a “masterclass” performance from young Brazilian Estevao, which drew a lofty comparison from former Arsenal star Thierry Henry.
The match saw Chelsea secure a statement win, with the Blues going ahead via a Jules Kounde own-goal, followed by Estevao’s “excellent solo effort” that doubled the lead, and a final finish by Liam Delap. Barcelona were reduced to 10 players before half-time when Ronald Araujo picked up a second booking.
Estevao, who officially joined from Palmeiras in the summer in a £29million deal, was singled out for his performance.
Speaking on CBS Sports, Henry offered the ultimate praise for the 18-year-old winger: “You wouldn’t like to play against him. I’m not saying that you wouldn’t be able to stop him, but he’s coming at you all the time.”
Henry continued the comparison to a Manchester United icon, stating: “He’s reminding me of, I know it’s early doors, but that’s why I think Ryan Giggs was one of the best because he was coming at you all game.
Whether he’s having a good game or not a good game, he’s trying to test you all the time and see if you’re going to stop him or not. That’s how it is as a winger.”
Despite the high praise, manager Enzo Maresca confirmed he is easing the youngster into the team based on tactics, stating: “If he doesn’t play, Pedro Neto plays wide in his position.
And Pedro is good. And we are happy with Pedro… The game plan always decides the first XI.” Estevao currently has five goals and one assist in just 17 appearances this season.