“I hope you continue shining” - Neymar sends congratulatory message to Estevao Willian as the Chelsea-bound star surpasses his Brasileiro record
Neymar sent a congratulatory message to Estevao Willian, who will join Chelsea next summer, after his record-breaking feat in the Brasileiro Serie A. The youngster became the U-17 player with the most goal contributions in a single season in the Brazilian top-flight this century.
Estevao has received great acclaim in recent months after breaking through at Palmeiras' following the transfer of former teammate Endrick to Real Madrid. The youngster made his debut for Brazil at the age of 17 in September.
Estevao Willian was in action for reigning champions Palmeiras as they claimed a 5-3 win over Juventude to move to within one point of leaders Botafogo. The youngster recorded a goal and an assist for his side, taking his tally to 18 goal contributions this season.
Neymar previously held the record for the most goal contributions by an U-17 player in the Brazilian top-flight this century with 16. The Brazilian legend congratulated Estevao on Instagram.
“Congratulations Estêvão Willian for breaking the record! I hope you continue shining & enchanting people with your football,” Neymar wrote.
Injuries have limited Estevao to just 24 league appearances for his club this season, where he has scored 10 goals and provided eight assists. The youngster has been likened to Brazil's record goalscorer for his style of play and quality, even by teammate Felipe Anderson.
Chelsea have signed the wonderkid in a deal that could reportedly rise up to £55 million, and he will join them once he turns 18 in 2025.
Neymar returns to action for Al-Hilal win over Al-Ain
Neymar returned to action for Al-Hilal in their 5-4 win over Emirati outfit Al-Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite on Monday, October 21. The Brazilian great made his first appearance in 369 days, coming off the bench for his club.
Neymar has been out injured since October 2023, when he ruptured his ACL while on international duty with the Brazil national team. The 32-year-old played only five times for Al-Hilal after signing from PSG for a reported €90 million before picking up his injury.
The forward was introduced into the fray as a 77th minute substitute for Nasser Al-Dawsari to great applause from the stands, with his family in attendance. He nearly scored shortly after, flashing a shot just wide after exchanging passes with Aleksandr Mitrovic.
Al-Hilal will be without the Brazilian forward in the Saudi Pro League until January due to the league's registration rules, which place a limit on the number of foreign players. He will, however, be able to feature in the AFC Champions League.