Eden Hazard, the Chelsea legend, has been compared to youngster Estevao by Florent Malouda. Malouda claims the context is totally different, with Hazard joining a team that had just won the Champions League.
What happened?
Malouda said Estevao is coming into a team in transition, trying to get back to the top stage. He highlighted that Hazard arrived in a team designed to win big trophies.
Estevao is only 18 years old and has shown signs of promise, but Malouda believes expectations should be eased for the youngster. He scored eight goals and provided four assists in 36 appearances for Chelsea.
Why it matters for Eden Hazard
Hazard spent seven years at Chelsea, making 352 appearances and scoring 110 goals. He helped the club win six trophies, including two Premier League titles.
Malouda wants Estevao to develop like Hazard, but he is still young and adapting to Premier League and Champions League football. Estevao has massive expectations after moving to Stamford Bridge from Palmeiras last summer.
What comes next?
Malouda wishes Estevao develops potentially like Hazard, but the context is different. He believes Estevao should not be compared to Hazard, as it's not going to help him.
Hazard is a legendary player who made a big difference at Chelsea. He won many trophies and was a real added value to the team. Estevao has a long way to go to reach Hazard's level, but he has shown promise at a young age.
The comparison between Estevao and Hazard is not fair, according to Malouda. He thinks Estevao should be given time to develop and adapt to the Premier League and Champions League.
Estevao has so far made 36 appearances for Chelsea, scoring eight goals and providing four assists. He has a lot to learn, but he has the potential to become a great player like Hazard.
Malouda's comments come as Estevao continues to develop at Chelsea. He has a bright future ahead of him, but he should not be compared to Hazard at this stage.
Hazard's legacy at Chelsea is still remembered, and he is considered one of the greatest players to have played for the club. Estevao has a lot to live up to, but he has the potential to become a great player in his own right.