Palmeiras Prepares for Club World Cup Quarterfinal
Ahead of the crucial Club World Cup quarterfinal clash on Friday, Palmeiras head coach Abel Ferreira has urged young winger Estêvão to make a real impact against Chelsea. The promising 18-year-old, who is an exciting prospect for the future, was signed by the English club last year for an initial fee of €34 million (approximately $40 million), which could rise to €67 million (around $78.8 million) depending on performance incentives.
Estêvão’s Commitment to Palmeiras
Despite having secured his transfer to Chelsea, Estêvão has chosen to stay in Brazil until the club’s participation in the prestigious tournament concludes in July. As he prepares to face his upcoming employers in Philadelphia, Ferreira has praised him as “a spectacular kid” and emphasized the importance of his contributions during this tournament. He stated,
“While he is still with us, Estêvão needs to focus on his responsibilities. After this, he will be free to join Chelsea. Until that time, he should aim to leave us with a strong performance in this World Cup.”
Showcasing Potential Against Chelsea
Ferreira expressed hope that Estêvão would display his full potential and capabilities in front of Chelsea’s watching eyes:
“This match is an excellent chance for him to showcase all that he can do.”
Recognizing the emotional strain on the player, Estêvão admitted to feeling torn as he plays what could be his last games for Palmeiras while considering his future at Chelsea. His sentiment has drawn some criticism from fans and media, but Ferreira defended the young talent, acknowledging that it’s natural to feel nervous in high-stakes matches.
Challenges Ahead for Palmeiras
Despite his considerable gifts, Estêvão has yet to find the scoresheet or provide an assist in the ongoing Club World Cup. Ferreira did not shy away from acknowledging the challenges his team faces against Chelsea, the reigning UEFA Champions League winners. He remarked,
“It is realistic to say that Chelsea are a stronger team than Palmeiras. They have come here and signed our best player. However, in my teams, no one wins alone. We work, fight, and suffer together.”
Optimism Despite Chelsea’s Favoritism
As Chelsea arrives as the clear favorites, they are equipped with a star-studded lineup, although they will be without suspended midfielder Moisés Caicedo. Nonetheless, Ferreira remains optimistic about his team’s chances, insisting that despite Chelsea’s favored status, Palmeiras has its own strengths and ambitions. He stated,
“The fact that Chelsea are considered the favorites does not mean we lack our own tools and determination. We must approach this match utilizing our strategy and staying true to our game plan.”
This game is expected to be a thrilling encounter given both teams’ recent forms and the stakes involved, especially after Al Hilal and Fluminense’s impressive victories over Manchester City and Inter Milan in previous rounds, respectively.
