Gabriel Martinelli Praises Chelsea Starlet Ahead of Stamford Bridge Derby

Gabriel Martinelli admires Estevao Willian rise at Chelsea as Arsenal prepare for a fierce Premier League showdown.

Gabriel Martinelli has spoken openly about the Estevao Willian Chelsea rise, calling the teenage winger “so good” as Arsenal get ready for their huge Premier League clash against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The Arsenal forward praised the Brazilian starlet while admitting he hopes his compatriot “is not on his day” in the London derby.

Martinelli knows Estevão well from their time with Brazil’s youth and senior setups, so his praise carries real weight. Speaking to the Evening Standard, he explained that the 18-year-old has been highly rated in Brazil’s camps for years, saying:

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“The boy is so good… everyone in the national team loves him. He deserves everything that is happening to him.”

Estevão joined Chelsea from Palmeiras in a £29 million deal — now viewed as one of the smartest pieces of business the club has made in recent years.

Estevão’s Electric Chelsea Impact

Since his arrival, Estevão has become one of the Premier League’s most exciting young talents. His numbers underline his fast rise:

He has scored nine goals in 13 matches across all competitions, including a standout Champions League display against Barcelona. His smooth transition into Premier League physicality and pace has been seamless. Coaches, teammates, opponents, and pundits have all praised his impact.

Chelsea’s recruitment strategy often gets criticised for over-spending, but Estevão’s impact has validated the signing and highlighted the club’s long-term vision.

Arsenal remain top of the Premier League, with the league’s best defensive record, yet they know Estevão is the sort of unpredictable forward who can trouble any backline.

Martinelli’s comments reflect respect as well as caution. As a fellow Brazilian attacker, he understands Estevão’s mentality, technical flair, and ability to change a match instantly. His praise also shows the growing recognition Estevão is earning beyond Chelsea’s fanbase.

What It Means for the Premier League

Estevão looks set to be a centrepiece in Chelsea’s young, ambitious squad. For Arsenal, keeping him quiet will be crucial in a derby that could shape the title race. The Brazilian connection between Martinelli and Estevão adds extra flavour to an already explosive fixture.

Gabriel Martinelli’s glowing verdict on Estevão Willian is both a compliment and a warning. With Arsenal and Chelsea set to face off in a high-stakes derby, all eyes will be on whether the teenager can continue his Chelsea rise while disrupting Arsenal’s title charge.

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