Manager Liam Rosenior of Chelsea disclosed that Estêvão became visibly emotional at halftime, having been withdrawn due to an early injury during their match against Manchester United on Sunday.
The attacker from Brazil participated for merely the initial sixteen minutes before Rosenior had no choice but to substitute him because of a hamstring problem; ex-United player Alejandro Garnacho entered the game as his replacement.
His fellow countryman, Matheus Cunha, subsequently netted the singular goal of the match prior to halftime, a strike that ensured United gained crucial three points in their pursuit of Champions League entry at Stamford Bridge.
Post-match, Rosenior did not manage to alleviate concerns regarding the seriousness of Estêvão’s ailment.
“He was in tears during the interval; it proved utterly heartbreaking for him,” was his comment.
“It appears to be a hamstring issue, which occurred precisely as he was advancing towards their net for a direct scoring opportunity – he strained his hamstring at that instant. My wish is for Este to return to play without undue delay.”
The injury woes for Chelsea continued as midfielder Enzo Fernández, recently reinstated to the team following a compulsory hiatus stemming from his remarks about a possible transfer to Real Madrid, was likewise compelled to exit the game in its latter stages.
“I have just spoken with him [Fernandez] in the changing room – I believe it’s his calf,” Rosenior further stated.
“My expectation is that it’s merely a cramp; he is currently receiving treatment for it, as we naturally desire him to be available for Tuesday’s fixture [versus Brighton and Hove Albion].
“He expended immense effort for the club this evening, and I anticipate no less from an individual of his caliber and distinction.”
