Chelsea announced on Friday that Estêvão will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a hamstring injury.
It remains uncertain whether the Brazilian will be fit in time for the upcoming World Cup, which takes place in June and July.
Chelsea’s interim coach Calum McFarlane did not provide a specific timeline for Estêvão’s recovery following the injury he sustained during the first half of last week’s match against Manchester United.
“It’s unfortunate that Estêvão won’t be playing for us this season, as he’s going to be out for a while. This is especially tough for such a young and talented player,” McFarlane said. “I’m sure he’s hopeful about the World Cup, but I can’t comment on that.”
Estêvão, 19, was subbed out just 16 minutes into the 1-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge and did not participate in Tuesday’s 3-0 loss against Brighton.
Last week, former coach Liam Rosenior shared that the young player was distraught after being taken off. Hamstring injuries can take several weeks or even months to heal in severe cases.
Brazil’s opening match in the World Cup is set against Morocco at MetLife Stadium on June 13.
Estêvão joined Chelsea from Palmeiras last year and has netted eight goals this season. He was anticipated to be part of Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, having scored five times in his last six international outings.
This injury adds to Brazil’s challenges, as they will also be without Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, who is out due to a torn ACL and meniscus in his right knee.
Meanwhile, Chelsea is set to face Leeds in the semifinals of the FA Cup on Sunday. Injured players Cole Palmer and João Pedro could potentially be available for selection.