Abel Ferreira Defends Estêvão’s Nervousness Ahead of Chelsea Move

Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira spoke up defending his young player Estêvão who admitted feeling nervous ahead of his Chelsea transfer next month.

Previously, 18-year-old Estêvão revealed his anxiety to the media:

“It’s really difficult. It’s like a dream that I’m going to make come true. I have to focus here and work hard, but it’s not easy. The closer it gets, the more anxiety sets in.”

Responding to criticism received by his young player, Ferreira emphasized that such feelings are natural:

“What distinguishes humans from animals is feelings and emotions. It’s normal for an 18-year-old boy whose dream is becoming reality to feel nervous.”

The winger who debuted for Brazil national team about 9 months ago — has impressed in the Club World Cup with three assists from three matches against Porto, Al Ahly, and Inter Miami.