Chelsea legend Joe Cole has backed the club’s decision to sell Noni Madueke for £52 million. The move cleared the way for the arrival and rise of teenage sensation Estevao, who has made a huge impact on the Blues’ attacking lineup.
Chelsea have undergone a significant squad rebuild since Todd Boehly’s takeover, spending around £285 million on new talent during the transfer window. Alongside Estevao, new signings such as Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, Alejandro Garnacho, and Liam Delap bolster the club’s offensive options.
Estevao, a Brazilian forward signed from Palmeiras for £29 million a year ago, has been outstanding this season. The 18-year-old has scored nine goals in his last 13 appearances, impressing in both the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.
Joe Cole told Paddy Power that the sale of Madueke to Arsenal was justified given Estevao’s form. He said, “That transfer always made sense to me. You want to get the best young players in your club.” Cole praised Estevao’s progression, noting he has become a vital attacking threat in Enzo Maresca’s side.
Estevao’s emergence has forced Chelsea to rethink their attacking options, with the youngster stepping up especially after Cole Palmer’s absence. Cole described Estevao as “a fantastic player” and said fans now have “a new darling.”
Chelsea remain in contention in the Premier League, currently on a three-match winning streak. Cole added that a victory over top-of-the-table Arsenal would signal Chelsea’s return to the title race. Still, he pointed out Arsenal’s maturity and squad cohesion as key advantages this season.
Cole also revealed his combined Chelsea-Arsenal XI, including Estevao on the left wing and Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka on the right. He highlighted Moises Caicedo, Declan Rice, and Enzo Fernandez as his midfield choice, illustrating his respect for talent on both sides.
Chelsea’s next match against Arsenal will test whether Estevao can continue his impressive form and if the club’s strategy to sell Madueke was the right long-term decision. The young forward’s performances so far indicate the club’s investment is paying dividends.
Read more at: metro.co.uk
