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Xabi Alonso rules out January exit for Chelsea prodigy amid Barcelona links

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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has ruled out a January exit for Brazilian teenager Estevao, despite limited playing time and reported interest from Barcelona. Estevao, 19, has struggled for minutes under Alonso, playing less than 50 minutes in the Premier League this season. Alonso stated that Estevao remains part of his plans, citing a long season with opportunities for all players.

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Xabi Alonso, Manager of Chelsea
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Kickjolly · AI-written · automatically reviewed · Barca Universal ↗

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has ruled out a January exit for Brazilian teenager Estevao, despite limited playing time and reported interest from Barcelona. Estevao, 19, has struggled for minutes under Alonso, playing less than 50 minutes in the Premier League this season. Alonso stated that Estevao remains part of his plans, citing a long season with opportunities for all players. Barcelona had considered signing Estevao before his move to Chelsea last year.

Barcelona had monitored Estevao since his time at Palmeiras and considered signing him before his move to Chelsea. The Catalan club's decision not to pursue him was partly due to Lamine Yamal occupying the same position. Barcelona continues to monitor Estevao's development, having taken note of his limited playing time at Chelsea.

Alonso emphasized his commitment to giving Estevao opportunities, stating that the youngster will play and that there are no discussions about a January departure. Alonso acknowledged the importance of playing time for player happiness, taking responsibility for his decisions on team selection. The Chelsea manager's comments suggest a commitment to establishing Estevao within the team.

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Reported
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Barca Universal ↗
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Clubs covered
Chelsea, Barcelona

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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has moved to close the doors on the possibility of a January exit for Brazilian wonderkid Estevao, amid links to Barcelona. The 19-year-old attacking prodigy has struggled for minutes in the early parts of the season, leading to speculations about a possible January exit. And Barça, who have monitored him since his days at Palmeiras, were said to keeping an eye on the situation. The Blaugrana looked into the possibility of signing Estevao seriously before he eventually joined Chelsea last year. One of the primary reasons behind the Catalans’ decision to not pursue the Brazilian gem was that he occupies the same position as Lamine Yamal.

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