“I’m afraid of what I say” – Manager gutted to lose player to Chelsea, predicts big things for future

At the weekend, Chelsea finally announced the signing of Estevão Willian from Palmeiras.

In a deal which could cost as much as €61.5m, including performance bonuses, the Blues are taking away one of the most exciting talents in Brazil.

Following Palmeiras’ match last night, coach Abel Ferreira spoke to the media and talked about the recent sales the club have been finalising. Quoted by Globo Esporte, he explained how hard it’s been for them to keep their youngsters, and brought some sarcasm to insinuate he may run out of players soon.

“Do you know the difference between the real (Brazilian real currency) and the euro or dollar? So… It’s difficult. We asked Leila not to sell Endrick, Estêvão, Luis Guilherme. But it’s impossible. We’re talking about very large sums. And my job is to find solutions. I think the Brazilian national team is the one that can really benefit from this in the medium and long term, if they take care to follow these players,” said Abel Ferreira.

“I’m not going to say anything about Estêvão, sometimes I’m even afraid of what I say when I think about these players. Lucky for the coach who can count on them. But that’s normal.

“Clubs from Europe want to come to Palmeiras to get players. I’ve already said publicly that several players have been sought after. If we accept all the offers that come our way, my deputies and I will start playing.”

Palmeiras are losing Endrick and Luis Guilherme this summer, as they’re moving to Real Madrid and West Ham United, respectively. Now even though Chelsea will have to wait a year until they have Estêvão in London, their fans should probably know that the youngster is having a very exciting season at Palmeiras, with people in Brazil getting quite impressed with what he’s been doing there.

The winger may be just 17, but already has 24 appearances for the first team, with five goals and three assists.