Willian Estevao's mentality and focus will be put to the test when he faces his childhood idol, Lionel Messi, when Palmeiras face Inter Miami.
Palmeiras boss Abel Ferreira has cautioned Estevao Willian to remain focused and avoid being starstruck when they face Inter Miami.
The 18-year-old is one of the top talents in world football, bagging two man of the match awards in their first two games in the Club World Cup.
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They face Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami next, in a match that would decide who wins Group A. Aware that Estevao idolises Messi, his coach urged him to keep his eyes on the prize.
What Ferreira said
Speaking to reporters ahead of the game at Hardrock Stadium in Miami, Ferreira praised the quality of Estevao, but worried he might be starstruck.
"Honestly, I hope he [Estevao] is totally focused on what he has to do and doesn't just look at and admire the other [Messi]. That's what I hope (laughs),” he said.
“Estêvão is a youngster who has above-average competitive maturity, which is why he's already sold (to Chelsea). I hope we play a great game in attack and defence. He'll have to be committed defensively, given the dynamics of our opponent.
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"At the end of the game, if Estêvão has the opportunity and wants to ask for an autograph or a photo, that's no problem (laughs). But for the 90 minutes, he must stay focused on his task, which is what I believe he will do. In the end, he will have the opportunity to say that he played against one of the greatest in the history of world football. That is undeniable."
The youngster has been associated with Messi for most of his career, as he is colloquially called ‘Messinho’. Before signing for Chelsea, he reportedly longed for a move to Barcelona. However, the presence of Lamine Yamal prevented the Blaugrana from making a serious push.
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