‘They call him Messino’ – Gilberto Silva names Chelsea star to become world best

Former Arsenal midfielder, Gilberto Silva, has named Chelsea’s Willian Estevao as one of the players to rise to the highest level in the game.

Chelsea fend off competition from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Arsenal and Manchester United to sign the 18-year-old Brazilian midfielder in 2024.

He joined the English Premier League side for £29 million from Palmeiras this summer when he turned 18-year-old.

Estevao also wants to cement his place in Brazil’s squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup, scoring twice in their 5-0 friendly win against South Korea on Friday.

“I believe he’s going to be a very top player, he’s got the talent,” Silva told Perform.

“I have known him since he was a very little kid back in Belo Horizonte, with Cruzeiro. Later on, he moved to Palmeiras and he stepped up so fast with his game, developing his skills, his ability, his strength.

“I’m sure he’s going to be a top, top player. Not only for Chelsea, but in the world.

“He was above everyone in Belo Horizonte. The people called him ‘Messinho’, which was the comparison to Messi. But I don’t want to compare him…”