Five-time world champion Rivaldo analyzed striker Estêvão’s moment in the Brazilian team. In an interview published this Monday (11), the former player stated that it is still too early for the young man to take on a leadership role in the team. The statement comes on the eve of the friendly against Senegal, scheduled for Saturday (15), in London.
Estêvão, 18 years old, is part of the group called up by Carlo Ancelotti for Data FIFA. The player stands out at Chelsea, with goals and assists in the European season. Rivaldo praised the performance, but emphasized the need for patience.
- Players like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo and Neymar have more experience.
- Estêvão recently left Palmeiras and adapts to English football.
- The team seeks recovery after defeat to Japan in the last FIFA Date.
FIRST TRAINING IN LONDON! ✅
— brazil (@CBF_Futebol) November 11, 2025
The Brazilian team began preparing for the friendlies on the last FIFA Date of 2025.
Under the command of manager Carlo Ancelotti, the group worked at Arsenal’s CT, with some of the athletes still performing.
The first challenge will be at… pic.twitter.com/ie2g9xBnTe
Estêvão’s performance at Chelsea
Estêvão moved from Palms for Chelsea in July 2025. The striker played 12 games in the Premier League until November. He recorded four goals and three assists in the period.
Adaptation to the European rhythm is positive. Coach Enzo Maresca uses the Brazilian in rotations in attack. Estêvão often comes on in the second half or starts games against average opponents.
Rivaldo’s opinion on leadership
Rivaldo gave an interview to the vehicle Lance!. The former player started by highlighting the young man’s potential. He stated that Estêvão can contribute with technical quality.
Then he reinforced the hierarchy in the cast. He mentioned Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo as references in the attack. Included Neymar in the list, depending on the physical condition of the number 10.
The five-time 2002 champion compared the current trajectory to his own. He recalled that he assumed prominence after years of maturation. Recommended focus on gradual development.
Preparation for friendly against Senegal
The Brazilian team has been training in London since Sunday (10). Carlo Ancelotti leads tactical sessions at Arsenal’s CT. The friendly serves as preparation for the 2026 Qualifiers.
Senegal arrives unbeaten in the last five games. The African team has Sadio Mané and Nicolas Jackson in attack. The match takes place at Emirates Stadium, at 1pm (Brasília time).
Role squads and technical expectations
Ancelotti called up 23 players for Data FIFA. Estêvão is among the newcomers alongside other young people. Veterans like Alisson and Marquinhos lead the group.
- Goalkeepers: Alisson, Bento and Ederson.
- Defenders: Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães and Wendell.
- Midfielders: Bruno Guimarães, Lucas Paquetá and André.
- Forwards: Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Raphinha, Neymar and Estêvão.
The technical committee observes the integration of the newcomers. Tactical tests include variations on the 4-2-3-1 formation. The objective centers on improving collective performance.
Broadcast and game coverage
The Brazil x Senegal friendly is broadcast live. TV Globo shows it open throughout the country. SporTV covers it on closed TV with exclusive narration.
Digital platforms monitor in real time. Bolavip Brasil offers minute-by-minute updates. GE TV broadcasts on YouTube with official images.
