A significant setback has hit Carlo Ancelotti’s attacking plans, as Chelsea winger Estêvão will miss the 2026 World Cup after being left off Brazil’s preliminary squad, according to Globoesporte. The 19-year-old has been plagued by recurring physical issues, which ultimately cost him a spot that had been considered secure and essential on the right flank.
Estêvão suffered an injury on April 18 during a match against Manchester United, and the initial prognosis was far from optimistic. Days later, the severity of his muscular problem was confirmed, ruling him out entirely just a month before the tournament kicks off.
The young attacker endured a campaign marred by fitness troubles, preventing him from maintaining consistency with Chelsea. He made only 22 appearances in the Premier League, starting just 12 of them, and contributed two goals and two assists in the league.
Ancelotti had already been aware of Rodrygo’s absence for months, and now loses another key player in the same position. This opens the door for serious candidates vying to fill the role, including Endrick, Luiz Henrique, or Rayan. A positional shift involving Raphinha is also a possibility, though considered far less likely.
