Palmeiras’ rising star Estevao Willian, who is set to join Chelsea after the Club World Cup, is excited to face his biggest idol Lionel Messi at the tournament.
Messi’s Inter Miami was drawn into Group A alongside Al Ahly, FC Porto, and Palmeiras for the expanded 32-team competition.
Their opening match will be against Al Ahly, followed by games with the Portuguese and Brazilian sides.
In an interview with ESPN Brasil, Estevao admitted being incredibly excited about potentially playing against the legendary Messi.
He said: “I’m going to ask for his shirt! Who knows, maybe score a goal, win the game… I think that’s the most important thing.
“When we fell into his group, I couldn’t believe that I was going to face my biggest idol, a guy who is a reference on and off the field for me.
17-year-old Estêvão Willian had a season to remember in the Brasileirão 🌟
—Breakthrough Player 🏆
—Best Striker 🏆
—2nd in the league with Palmeiras
—3rd top scorer in the league
—Most G/A (22) ever in a season before turning 18Wow. pic.twitter.com/52dLLIMQIg
— B/R Football (@brfootball) December 9, 2024
“It’s going to be a special moment, not only for me but for all Palmeiras fans and the players. I think it will be very important.”
Estevao, often compared to Messi early in his career and nicknamed “Messinho” or “Little Messi,” has distanced himself from the label while still holding immense admiration for the Argentine icon.
At just 17 years old, Estevao has already made a name for himself in Brazil’s top-flight.
Promoted to Palmeiras’ first team in January, the young winger scored 13 goals and provided nine assists in 31 league appearances, helping his team secure a second-place finish.
His impressive performances earned him the Breakthrough Player award in Brazil’s domestic league.
After the Club World Cup, Estevao will officially join Chelsea, marking the next chapter in his career.
