Premier League

Chelsea Dressing Room Tension Rises As Estevao And Buonanotte Reportedly Unhappy With Enzo Maresca After Atalanta Defeat

Estevao Willian looking frustrated on the Chelsea bench during a match

Chelsea’s season has taken another frustrating twist, and this time the disappointment is coming from inside the dressing room. After their 2-1 Champions League defeat to Atalanta, reports suggest that a few Chelsea players — especially Estevao Willian and Facundo Buonanotte — are unhappy with manager Enzo Maresca’s decisions.

The Blues seemed to be finding their rhythm after big wins in late November, but things have quickly fallen apart. A shocking 3-1 loss to struggling Leeds United, followed by a drab goalless draw with Bournemouth, knocked confidence domestically. Fans were hoping Europe would offer relief… but Atalanta had other plans.

The decision that angered Chelsea fans

One of the biggest talking points from the Atalanta defeat was the absence of Estevao Willian from the pitch. Despite Chelsea chasing the game, Maresca chose not to bring on the £51 million Brazilian wonderkid — a move that baffled supporters.

According to the Daily Mail, Estevao was visibly disappointed when it became clear he wasn’t coming on. The 18-year-old has already shown flashes of brilliance since joining from Palmeiras, and fans believed the game was perfect for his creativity.

While Estevao is generally happy at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea’s board knows he is a future superstar — especially now that Real Madrid reportedly regrets not signing him when they had the chance. Keeping him satisfied will be a priority.

Buonanotte joins the list of frustrated players

Estevao isn’t alone. Facundo Buonanotte, who joined on a £2 million loan from Brighton, has also grown frustrated. The 20-year-old has made just six appearances and has now been an unused substitute for seven straight matches.

With minutes scarce and opportunities shrinking, the youngster is reportedly questioning his role under Maresca.

Maresca’s rotation causing confusion?

One of the criticisms facing Enzo Maresca this season is his extreme level of rotation:

119 changes to starting lineups — the most in England
Over 100 substitutions across all competitions

While rotation is necessary in a long season, constant changes can disrupt rhythm and frustrate players who struggle to build momentum.

Chelsea desperately need a reset

With the team now winless in their last three matches, pressure is mounting. Maresca’s men will be desperate to rediscover their spark when they face an in-form Everton at Stamford Bridge this weekend.

A win could ease the tension. Another slip, however, might turn frustration into full-blown crisis.