Lamine Yamal’s journey at Euro 2024 is a perfect illustration of the importance of a young player having the trust of his coach. At just 16, the Spanish forward was thrust into the limelight by coach Luis de la Fuente, who did not hesitate to give him playing time despite his young age. This risk-taking was rewarded with some stunning performances from Yamal, who became the youngest goalscorer in the competition’s history.
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Conversely, Estevao’s situation in Brazil seems more complex. Although coach Dorival has recognised the young Palmeiras midfielder’s potential, he has warned against rushing his integration into the Seleçao. “We have to respect the processes, you can’t rush things in football,” he said, stressing the importance of giving Estevao time to develop at his own pace.
DORIVAL TÁ DE OLHO NO ESTÊVÃO, MAS QUER CALMA COM O MLK! 👀🇧🇷 O treinador da #SeleçãoBrasileira revelou que a joia do Palmeiras já tá na mira da comissão do Brasil, mas ressaltou que não se pode apressar esse processo. pic.twitter.com/mKdsMwbW1G
— TNT Sports BR (@TNTSportsBR) July 8, 2024
Yet Estevao’s qualities seem comparable to Yamal’s. Like the Spanish striker, the Brazilian is considered one of the greatest talents of his generation. His performances with Palmeiras have convinced Chelsea to sign him for next season, proof of his immense potential.
But unlike Yamal, Estevao has not yet managed to establish himself sustainably at the highest level. Could Dorival’s caution, although understandable, slow down the young player’s progress?
