Former Real Madrid, Inter Milan, AC Milan striker, and two-time World Champion for Brazil, Ronaldo, has shared his thoughts on 17-year-old Palmeiras forward Estevao Willian, also known as Messinho.
One of Brazil's most talented young players, Estevao is signed with Chelsea Football Club, which competes in the English Premier League (EPL), and he is set to join the "Blues" at the end of June 2025. Insider Fabrizio Romano reported on May 8 about the likelihood of Messinho's contract with the London club.
Journalist Ben Jacobs quotes Ronaldo as saying:
He’s a young player and very talented. He’s kind of like Lamine Yamal. He will soon be a very big star in football. He’s very promising, and at just 17. I think he’ll play for Palmeiras at the Club World Cup then join Chelsea.
During the 2024 season, Messinho played 30 matches in Serie A, scoring 13 goals and providing nine assists. According to Transfermarkt, Estevao Willian’s market value is estimated at 40 million euros.
On August 8, La Liga club Real Valladolid officially announced that the legendary player has changed his mind about selling the team and will remain the president and owner of the club. Since 2018, the Brazilian has owned 51% of Valladolid's shares.
