Chelsea s "New Messi"! Can he become the next Messi with unlimited potential?

Chelsea’s new darling—Brazilian boy Esteban, known as “Mesinho”!

Just this summer, he stepped onto the lawn of Stamford Bridge, instantly igniting heated discussions in the football world. But Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva stood up and poured cold water on him: "Don't compare him with Messi! It's too early!"

Let's take a look at why this young man is called "Little Messi"!

1. New star's debut: from Brazil to London

Esteban, a 17-year-old from Brazil, landed at Chelsea this summer with the nickname "Mesinho" and instantly became the focus of the media.

On the opening weekend of the Premier League, Chelsea challenged Crystal Palace away. The game ended in a 0-0 draw, but Esteban made his first-team debut!

Although he did not score or assist in that game, just standing in the Premier League was enough to make the fans excited.

In the subsequent games, Esteban gradually emerged. According to statistics, he contributed 1 goal and 1 assist in 9 games. Although the team ranked seventh, Esteban's shining performance gave coach Maresca hope.

His speed, flexibility and left-foot skills make people think of that football superstar-Lionel Messi.

2. The label of “Messinho”: glory or burden?

Why is Esteevao labeled "Mesinho"? This is not groundless! First of all, his left foot skills are superb and he can always save the day in close confrontations, just like Messi.

Secondly, his short stature allows him to move freely among the crowd, and coupled with his sharp breakthrough, it is simply eye-catching.

On the Chelsea training ground, his teammates all said that he "drew the ball like he was dancing." Not everyone has this talent.

But former Arsenal player Silva said bluntly in an interview: "People call him 'Messinho', which is a comparison with Messi, but I don't want to compare him. I hope he becomes Esteban."

These words are not a blow, but a protection. As a member of the Brazilian World Cup champions, Silva himself knows the cruelty of football - premature labels can bring huge pressure and make young players lose themselves.

In history, how many "new Messis" eventually fell? For example, Bo Yang was praised as a queen but gradually faded out of the mainstream.

3. Unlimited potential: How can Chelsea’s star of tomorrow emerge from his cocoon and become a butterfly?

Putting comparisons aside, there is no doubt about Esteban's potential. He is already regarded as a future star in Chelsea's youth training system.

Although his statistics are not explosive, they are impressive enough for a young boy who has just arrived. More importantly, his attitude towards the game is humble and studious, and he trains hard off the court, which allows him to win the trust of his coaches and teammates.

Expert analysis pointed out that Esteban's advantage lies in his versatility: he can play as a winger or attack midfielder, has accurate left-foot shooting, and has a wide vision for passing.

If he can stay healthy, avoid injuries, and continue to hone himself in the high-intensity competition of the Premier League, it is entirely possible that he will become a regular player for the Brazilian national team in the next few years.

All in all, Esteban’s story has just begun. Being compared to Messi is an honor but also a challenge. Silva's urgent cry reminds us: Football needs more patience instead of blind pursuit.

Esteban has the potential to become Chelsea's flag man, but only if he can avoid the trap of comparison and focus on his own growth.