Chelsea winger Estevao now looks set to miss the rest of the season after suffering a hamstring injury, with his chances of making Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad now in serious doubt. BBC Sport described the setback as season-ending, while Reuters, citing The Athletic, reported that the 18-year-old suffered a Grade 4 hamstring injury and is “highly unlikely” to be ready for the tournament.
Injury blow lands at the worst time
Estevao picked up the injury during Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester United on April 18. He limped off in the 16th minute and later left the dressing room in tears, with Chelsea coach Liam Rosenior saying the winger was emotional after the game. He underwent an MRI on Monday.
The 2026 World Cup starts on June 11, and Brazil open their campaign against Morocco on June 13 in East Rutherford. That leaves very little room for recovery, match sharpness, and selection confidence.
Chelsea lose a rising attacking threat
This is a tough hit for Chelsea as well. Estevao has produced eight goals and four assists in 36 appearances in his first season at the club, including three goals in seven Champions League matches. He has scored against Liverpool and Barcelona this season, underlining how quickly he has grown into a dangerous attacking option.
For Brazil, the concern goes beyond talent. Estevao has scored four goals in his last four appearances for the national team and already has 11 caps. That means this is not just a promising youngster losing minutes. It is a player who had started to build real momentum before a major tournament.
Selection doubt now replaces certainty
Estevao is not officially ruled out of the World Cup, but the path back looks very narrow. His World Cup chances are in doubt and he is highly unlikely to be ready in time. Until Brazil make a final squad call, the situation stays between hope and hard reality.
For now, Chelsea lose the rest of his season. Brazil may lose one of their sharpest young options just before the tournament begins.
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