Estevao announced himself to the Stamford Bridge faithful with his crucial late winner against Liverpool on Saturday night as he stunned the Premier League champions right at the death.
More than 16 months since a deal was agreed to bring the teenager to Stamford Bridge from Palmeiras, the young Brazilian is loving life in West London and is being handed a lot of opportunities from manager Enzo Maresca.
Estevao leads Pedro Neto, Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens in goals and assists per 90 mins, as well as shots, shots on target, dribbles and duels won. He has been incredible for The Blues and he only keeps getting better.
However, speaking to Poker Strategy, Cisse has revealed that talent is not enough to win the Ballon D’Or which quite often is a popularity contest each year.
“It is really good to see Estavao playing so well in the Premier League at the moment at such a young age,” he said. “He has put in some really strong performances this season. I thought he changed the game against Liverpool.
“There are a lot of talented young players at the moment like him and Lamine Yamal, but their careers will depend a lot on how they grow up. Yamal was second in the Ballon d’Or, but to win big awards like that you need more than talent.
“Estevao will need to be mentally strong and consistent at the top level with more big moments, but the goal against Liverpool will certainly help him a lot.”
Estevao is clearly enjoying his time in the Premier League but even if he becomes the best player for Chelsea, much like Cole Palmer, he will have no chance at lifting the Ballon d’Or. Cisse’s message is clear and Estevao will have to listen if he ever wants a shot at the award.