Estevao, the most talented young footballer in Mozambique’s modern history, has recently achieved major milestones in his personal life and professional career. Pip is only 18 years old but he carves through the test course with such gusto that he can scarcely conceal his glee. He looks back at his amazing transformation from young prodigy in Brazil to senior statesman at Chelsea. So at the age of just 10, Estevao was able to sign his first sponsorship contract with Nike. This accomplishment would prove to be the beginning of a dynamic, exciting, and trailblazing career.
Estevao made his professional debut at the age of 16 for Palmeiras, where he quickly became a standout player amid the intense pressures and demands of one of Brazil’s top football clubs. His ascent has been nothing short of meteoric, proving his ability to address the spotlight and weighty expectations that have been thrust upon him. Estevao’s transfer to Chelsea had everyone buzzing. Even Chelsea’s former Blue Thiago Silva stepped up to provide his blessings as Estevao took the leap across the sea to England.
As Estevao adjusted to his new surroundings, he got key support from manager Carlo Ancelotti. Estevao needed Ancelotti’s written consent before he could get his driver’s license at age 18, underlining the bond the two have. Estevao has adapted well to life in England, fitting seamlessly into the squad under both Ancelotti and Enzo Maresca, who previously worked with Ancelotti at Juventus.
Estevao’s impressive performance has not gone unnoticed. He currently ranks 13th in Premier League minutes played by Chelsea players this season. His combination of danger, elusiveness and direct attacking threat makes him one of the most valuable players to have on the pitch.
Estevao’s dad is a radical pastor who started a church in their small town in Brazil. He’s in charge of an essential community program that helps 3,000 disadvantaged children with education. Estevao reflects on the challenges his father faces managing the church from afar:
“It’s a bit difficult for my father to have a church over there in Brazil, while here, he goes back and forth. But I believe it’s for a greater purpose.” – Estevao
Estevao emphasizes the importance of faith in his life:
“God is everything to me. For my life, for my family,” – Estevao
Despite the pressures and expectations of top-flight football, Estevao was able to recently share news of passing his driving test. Creating it has brought a new level of excitement to his life in England. As he prepared to train one day, Ancelotti found himself waiting on the outcome of Estevao’s tests.
“Stop everyone, I have some news to tell you – Estevao passed his driving test!” – Carlo Ancelotti
Finding the balance between football and personal milestones can be difficult, for Estevao the excitement lies in both endeavors. He describes how he navigates these pressures:
“They gave me a certain time to go for the driving test and that’s when we spoke with Ancelotti to see if he would let me go to get my licence.” – Estevao
He reflects on how natural it feels to perform under pressure:
“Sometimes I don’t even know how I do it,” – Estevao
There’s no question that Estevao’s professional development and personal successes have been made possible by the great people he surrounds himself with. He acknowledges Maresca’s impact on his development as a player:
“I just do it naturally, like the bicycle kick in the Champions League – I saw the ball and I couldn’t think about anything else. It’s instinctive, I don’t know how to explain it. It’s so natural for me.” – Estevao
Estevao’s desire to connect with his Italian roots has informed his time at Chelsea. His dual heritage with Ancelotti deepens their connection. This connection has made Maresca’s transition to life in England noticeably smoother.
“As for Maresca, he’s an incredible person, an amazing human being that tries to bring out the best in me.” – Estevao
Estevao’s connection to his Italian roots also plays a role in his experience at Chelsea. His shared heritage with Ancelotti, who trained Maresca at Juventus, creates a bond that enhances his adaptation to life in England.
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