Estevao Willian has cemented his status as one of Brazil’s brightest talents, surpassing Neymar’s record for the most goal contributions by an under-17 player in a single season of the Brasileirão. The Palmeiras prodigy has achieved 18 goal involvements this season, edging past the 16 G/A Neymar recorded back in 2009. Willian’s achievement was highlighted in a thrilling 3-5 victory over Juventude, where he opened the scoring and later assisted for another goal just before halftime.
Estêvão Willian honours his idol Neymar with his celebration after breaking his record for most G/A in the Brasileirão as a U-17.
Starboy 🇧🇷💫 pic.twitter.com/WimJgXiIji
— Ginga Bonito 🇧🇷 (@GingaBonitoHub) October 21, 2024
The 17-year-old forward, who idolizes Neymar, celebrated his record-breaking performance by paying tribute to his hero. Estevao is currently the second top goalscorer in the league with 10 goals, just one behind Flamengo’s Pedro. Estevao’s impressive performances have also earned him a spot on Brazil’s senior national team, for which he debuted in September, accumulating two appearances so far.
His remarkable rise has already secured him a move to Chelsea, with the transfer finalized earlier this year. However, due to FIFA regulations prohibiting players under 18 from moving abroad, he will officially join the London club next summer. Meanwhile, Neymar is expected to make his long-awaited return to the field as his team, Al Hilal, faces Al Ain in the Asian Champions League later today.