Estevao's World Cup aspirations compromised by season-ending injury

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Brazil forward Estevao's World Cup hopes are in doubt after it was confirmed Friday he would miss the rest of the season with a hamstring injury.

It is not clear if the Chelsea player will recover in time for the tournament that runs through June and July.

Chelsea interim coach Calum McFarlane did not provide a specific timeframe for Estevao's recovery from the injury sustained in the first half of last week's match against Manchester United.

“Estevao unfortunately won’t play for us this season because he is going to be out for a little bit of time. That's really unfortunate, especially for someone so young and so talented,” McFarlane said. “I am sure he is very hopeful he can make the World Cup, but I don’t know on that.”

The 19-year-old Estevao was substituted after 16 minutes of the 1-0 loss at Stamford Bridge and did not participate in Tuesday's 3-0 defeat at Brighton.

Former coach Liam Rosenior disclosed last week that the teenager was in tears after being taken off. Hamstring injuries can take several weeks to heal, with more severe cases requiring months.

Brazil's first match in the World Cup is against Morocco at New York/New Jersey Stadium on June 13.

Estevao joined Chelsea from Palmeiras last year and has netted eight goals this season. He was anticipated to be included in Carlo Ancelotti's squad for the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, following a strong performance that saw him score five times in his last six international appearances.

This injury represents another setback for Brazil, which will also be without Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, who is sidelined due to a torn ACL and meniscus in his right knee.

Chelsea is set to face Leeds in the semifinals of the FA Cup on Sunday, with injured players Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro potentially returning to action.

Stay informed with ET Now’s in-depth coverage of Business News, Stock Market updates, IPO announcements, Company News, and Personal Finance Updates. Track live Share Market data, Mutual Funds, and the latest news events in real time.