Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca downplays comparisons between Estevao and Lionel Messi after the Brazilian’s stunning solo goal secured a 3-0 Champions League win over Barcelona.

Enzo Maresca quickly brushed off any talk of Lionel Messi when asked about Estevao’s spectacular solo strike in Chelsea’s 3-0 thrashing of Barcelona.

The 18‑year‑old Brazilian cut through two defenders on the right and curled the ball into the roof of Joan García’s net, sparking celebrations at Stamford Bridge.

Estevao’s goal was Chelsea’s second in the game, following an own goal by Jules Koundé and a late strike from substitute Liam Delap. Barcelona were reduced to ten men after Ronald Araújo received a second yellow card, leaving the visitors helpless.

The win lifted Chelsea to three victories out of five matches in the competition, while the teenage winger reached double‑digit goals for club and country in his debut season.

Estevao’s performance also saw him outshine Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal in a battle of teenage talents.

When a reporter tried to draw a parallel with Messi, Maresca shifted the focus: “Him, Lamine, they are so young, at 18, if you start to talk about Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, I think it’s too much pressure for young boys like them. Eighteen, they need to enjoy, they need to arrive at the training ground happy.”

Estevao himself was overwhelmed by the moment, calling it the “best moment” of his career. “I don’t really have any words to sum up how I’m feeling right now. It really was the perfect night. I’m just grateful to God for everything that has happened for me.”

Maresca added that he won’t be forced to overplay the new star. “Tonight we decided, probably in the most difficult game of the season, we decided to play with Estevao. I’m not a manager that doesn’t allow players to play minutes. It’s just the game plan, the game plan always decides the first 11.”