Michael Carrick left red-faced as humiliating reason behind Estevao’s Man United start emerges

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso reportedly started Estevao against Manchester United because the coaching staff viewed Michael Carrick's side as physically weaker than other Premier League opponents. Alonso had previously harbored concerns over the 19-year-old Brazilian winger's physicality, but United were considered ideal opposition for his first league start of the campaign.

Estevao impressed during the match as Chelsea defeated United 2-0 on October 31, 2026, courtesy of goals from Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer. The Peoples Person notes that the perception reflects wider criticism regarding United's poor conditioning and running metrics under Carrick, with the club sitting 17th in the Premier League table.