Estevão Willian, often referred to as “Messinho” due to comparisons to Lionel Messi, is a rising star in Brazilian football. Born in Franca, São Paulo, in 2007, his precocious talent has already attracted significant attention from major European clubs. At just 17 years old, he’s quickly making a name for himself as an exciting winger with exceptional dribbling skills and a keen eye for goal.
Estevão began his youth career with Cruzeiro before moving to Palmeiras, one of Brazil’s most prestigious clubs. He rapidly progressed through their youth ranks, showcasing his abilities in various youth tournaments. His performances were consistently outstanding, marked by dazzling footwork, creative passing, and an impressive goal-scoring record. He is primarily a left-footed player who favors playing on the right wing, allowing him to cut inside onto his stronger foot, much like his namesake Messi.
His style of play is characterized by his exceptional close control, quick changes of direction, and the ability to beat defenders with ease. He possesses a low center of gravity and excellent balance, making him difficult to dispossess. Beyond his dribbling prowess, Estevão also possesses a good passing range and vision, enabling him to create opportunities for his teammates. He’s not just a solo artist; he understands how to link up play and contribute to team attacks. Furthermore, he shows composure in front of goal, demonstrating a knack for finding the back of the net with both power and finesse.
Estevão’s professional career with Palmeiras is still in its early stages, but he’s already made an impact. He has featured in senior matches, showcasing his talent on the biggest stage in Brazilian football. He is quickly becoming a regular contributor, earning valuable playing time and experience. The pressure is undoubtedly immense, given the hype surrounding him, but he appears to be handling it with maturity and focus.
The comparisons to Messi are, of course, a significant burden to carry. However, Estevão has consistently expressed a desire to forge his own path and establish his own identity. He acknowledges the inspiration he draws from Messi, but he’s determined to become a unique player in his own right. This mindset, combined with his undeniable talent, bodes well for his future development.
Unsurprisingly, clubs across Europe are closely monitoring Estevão’s progress. Rumors of interest from Barcelona, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and several Premier League clubs have been circulating for some time. The intense competition for his signature highlights the high regard in which he is held. While the specifics of his next move remain uncertain, it’s widely expected that he will eventually make a move to a top European club, where he will have the opportunity to further develop his skills and compete at the highest level of the game.
Estevão Willian is undoubtedly one of the most exciting young prospects in world football. While the “Messinho” moniker might be a heavy weight to bear, his talent, dedication, and maturity suggest that he has the potential to achieve great things in the years to come. He is a player to watch closely as he continues his journey in the world of professional football.