Agent reveals Chelsea star Estevao harbored a deep affection for Barcelona, with multiple offers rejected due to financial constraints, hinting at a lost dream duo.
Estevao Willian's explosion against Barcelona at Stamford Bridge did not just leave a memorable goal and a magical night. It also reopened a story unknown to many Barca fans: the Brazilian could have worn the Blaugrana colors. This was revealed by his agent, Andre Cury, who stated that the young Chelsea player "has a special affection for Barca" and that he was offered to the Catalan club on repeated occasions.
According to Cury, the technical department approved his signing on each of the occasions he was presented as an option. There were meetings with Deco, exhaustive scouting, and unanimity that Estevao was a generational talent. But the obstacle was always the same: economics. "Barca's situation did not allow for a signing for the future," lamented the agent.
Today, with a five-year contract in London, the Brazilian is enjoying his present but maintains that emotional link with the club he once dreamed of reaching.
Another revelation from Cury was the possibility—now remote—of seeing Lamine Yamal and Estevao together. The agent did not hesitate to compare them to a historic duo: Messi and Neymar. "Think of that pair. It is better to have both together than just one. The same would have happened with Estevao and Lamine," he stated.
Barca's scouting of Estevao was not improvised. Cury detailed that he began sending reports on the footballer in 2018 and that in 2019, he took Eric Abidal to Brazil to watch him play. "At 11 years old, he was already different. He wanted to be the Ballon d'Or winner," he revealed.
Even after his departure from the club, he continued offering the player in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. But no transfer window ended in an agreement.
The present speaks for itself: Estevao shines in the Champions League while Barca lives a moment of inconsistency and needs differential young talent. The idea of having had Lamine and Estevao in the same squad already provokes nostalgia among the Barca fans.
A signing made impossible for economic reasons… that now takes the form of regret. The Brazilian is flying in London and showing why so many at Barca wanted him: perhaps the opportunity will not return, but the "special affection" was always there.
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