Chelsea were held to a 0–0 draw at home to Crystal Palace on the opening weekend of the Premier League season, but all eyes were on the bright sparks emerging from a youthful squad. Head coach Enzo Maresca singled out two teenage talents—Estêvão Willian and Josh Acheampong—as key figures for both now and in the years ahead.

Estêvão Willian, an 18-year-old winger whose official debut arrived after months of anticipation, showed glimpses of something special during his 30-minute cameo. According to Maresca, “Estêvão was very good... he showed personality... and no doubt, slowly, slowly, he will become a very important player for this club” .

Meanwhile, 19-year-old Josh Acheampong, who emerged from Chelsea’s academy to step into the heart of the defense amid an injury crisis, impressed with his physicality and composure against Crystal Palace’s striker Mateta. Maresca lauded his performance: “Josh was very good... he dealt with [Mateta] very well”—a testament to his readiness for first-team challenges .

Together, Estêvão and Acheampong represent the energy and potential fuelling Maresca’s vision for Chelsea’s immediate and long-term evolution.