Xabi Alonso faces scrutiny over Estêvão's limited playing time

Xabi Alonso has come under fire for his decision-making regarding Chelsea midfielder Estêvão following the Carabao Cup match against Liverpool on October 28, 2026. Despite public support for the 19-year-old, who received nearly 96 percent backing in pre-match polling, he has accumulated only 47 minutes of Premier League action this season. Alonso cited the physical demands of English football for not including Estêvão more prominently, stating that the season will present further opportunities. The coach's reasoning has not alleviated concerns among fans and observers over the player's future at Chelsea, especially as transfer speculation increases.

• 5:42 AMYahoo Sports — Xabi Alonso tries to explain his Estêvão decisions