Xabi Alonso said on Friday that there had been no discussions about a loan for Estevao. Ahead of Chelsea's Premier League home game against Manchester United on Saturday, he also said the player will get his games and his minutes over the course of the season.
Alonso rules out loan talks
Asked if Estevao could leave in January to get regular minutes elsewhere, the Blues boss said: "No, [there have been] no discussions about that."
He added: "It is not about attitude. It has been about the context of games, it has been about the start of the season and he is a great guy."
Alonso also said: "He really wants his adaptation after the first year of injury (hamstring earlier in 2026), but we are still in October and he will be important."
His message on minutes and communication
When Alonso was asked whether Estevao is frustrated by his lack of opportunities and whether he had explained the selection decisions, he replied: "Yeah, of course"
He then said: "It is no secret that all players want to be on the pitch, they want to be playing."
Alonso added: "When any of them have not had enough minutes because of my decision, I have to take the responsibility for that, that they are not as happy as they could (be)."
He continued: "But, as well, everyone has to be ready because in any game they could be important, they could be part of the team, and Este, his training and his attitude has been good."
On his conversations with the player, Alonso said: "We speak and we try to share our views, he does, for sure. It comes from me because he’s young and I need to involve him in the conversation."
Alonso says Estevao will play
Speaking about Estevao, Alonso said: "Sure, he will play. The season is long, and there will be moments for everyone."
He also said Estevao will have his games and his minutes.
Reports around the player
TEAMtalk says the latest from Spanish outlet Sport states Barcelona are also interested in taking Estevao on loan.
Recent reports out of France claimed Chelsea were willing to sanction Estevao's loan exit in January on three conditions: the loan being a straight loan, a buying club covering the full salary, and some form of guarantee over playing time.
Recent reports out of France also claimed PSG are reportedly hovering after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia suffered a season-ending ACL injury.
Estevao has yet to start a Premier League match this term.
