Why Real Madrid did not sign Chelsea rising star who troubled Barcelona in CL clash | OneFootball

Estevao Willian was one of the most coveted young footballers in Europe following his breakthrough at Palmeiras in Brazil.

The teenage sensation had almost every top club chasing his signing, but ended up signing for Chelsea. An agreement for his transfer was reached in 2024, with the winger arriving in London this summer.

In a short period of time, Estevao has already become a star at Chelsea, with his most recent accomplishment coming in the form of a brilliant performance and goal against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League last night.

Real Madrid also wanted Estevao

Now, according to MARCA, Real Madrid were one of the top European clubs who had their eyes on Estevao, along with Barcelona, when he was still at Palmeiras.

Barcelona recognised that the Brazilian sensation fit their footballing style, but their financial situation made it impossible to compete with his other suitors.

As for Real Madrid, the dream of transfer for Estevao very much existed, even in the player’s camp, but the squad was full of young talent in his position and there was no immediate room to give him the prominence he needed.

Estevao celebrating after scoring vs Barcelona. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Estevao was much more than a name on Real Madrid’s list. Inside the club his talent, boldness and ability to break defences were all recognised as an ideal profile for the future. This was conveyed to those around him.

But the moment simply was not right. His position was saturated with stars, Rodrygo was going strong, and secondary options such as Brahim Diaz and Arda Guler were pushing hard.

As a result, there was no immediate space to guarantee him steady growth. The current Chelsea star simply did not fit Real Madrid’s sporting reality at the time.

Then Chelsea appeared with an offer combining money, ambition and a clear sporting plan, convincing the 18-year-old rising star to agree to move to west London.

Since arriving at Chelsea in the summer, Estevao has five goals in 17 matches, three of which have come in the Champions League. And, it is clear that he is destined for greater heights.