John Obi Mikel fears ‘superb’ Chelsea star could leave because of Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso must find a way to up Estevao’s minutes, says Chelsea hero John Obi Mikel (Picture: The Obi One Podcast)

John Obi Mikel has called on Xabi Alonso to increase Estevao’s minutes at Chelsea to ensure the forward does not push to leave the club at the end of the season.

Estevao enjoyed an eye-catching opening campaign at Stamford Bridge after joining Chelsea from Palmeiras in the summer of 2025, racking up eight goals and four assists for the Blues.

A serious hamstring injury brought Estevao’s debut season to a premature end in April, though, a devastating blow that saw him miss out on on a place in Brazil’s squad at this year’s World Cup.

It has proven immensely difficult for Estevao to work his way back into Chelsea’s XI since Alo...