Chelsea fans will turn on Xabi Alonso if weird treatment of star player continues

Estevao has played just 148 minutes under Alonso this season and was benched again in the Carabao Cup loss to Liverpool, prompting concerns he could become unsettled.

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso left Brazil winger Estevao on the bench as the Blues crashed out of the Carabao Cup to Liverpool on penalties Wednesday night. The 19-year-old, who became a fan favourite in his first season at Stamford Bridge, has managed only 148 minutes of competitive football under Alonso and is yet to start a Premier League match, appearing only as a substitute behind Pedro Neto at right-wing-back.

Estevao was also omitted from the squad entirely at Anfield despite Cole Palmer's suspension, and was previously benched in favour of fellow teenager Geovany Quenda for the 2-0 defeat to Tottenham. Alonso defended the decision, saying: "I understand his situation and that he could be happier for sure. Every player wants to play, wants to be part of the team. We have had some intense games, and there will be moments for everything. I'm sure that Estevao will have his moment."

Former Premier League players Jamie O'Hara and Jermaine Pennant have warned that Alonso's treatment of the highly-rated teenager risks alienating Chelsea fans and could prompt Estevao to seek a move away from the club. O'Hara said the situation is "almost a bit embarrassing" given Estevao's potential, while Pennant cautioned that if results continue to suffer without Estevao featuring, supporters will turn on the manager.