"I think it's too much pressure" - Gilberto Silva urges fans to stop comparing Chelsea bound star with Lionel Messi

Former Brazil star Gilberto Silva has urged fans to stop comparing Chelsea-bound Willian Estevao to Lionel Messi as it puts too much pressure on the youngster. The starlet has been tipped for greatness throughout his young career, but Silva feels he should be allowed to develop with less pressure on his shoulders.

Silva had a stellar career that spanned over 463 appearances, including 244 for Premier League side Arsenal. He addressed the comparisons between Estevao and Messi, saying (via football.london):

"Since Estevao Willian was very young, people started to compare him to Messi, calling him a little Messi. But I think it's too much pressure. The good thing is that he's very low profile and he doesn't call himself that, he just enjoys football, just doing what he has to. He’s not bothered about what people are saying about him, but making that comparison. It's too early. Let him be Estevao. Be Estevao and play for Palmeiras and soon he'll play for Chelsea."

The Brazilian also highlighted the instability at Chelsea and noted it could affect Estevao's performances, saying:

"The lack of stability at Chelsea could make things tricky for Estevao Willian, I just hope that for his sake they can find stability because for players it's so important to have that. I was honestly expecting Mauricio Pochettino to stay for another season, I was surprised. But they know what they’re doing. I just hope the changes don’t impact the players."

Despite his reservations about the comparisons between Lionel Messi and Willian Estevao, Gilberto Silva will hope the youngster settles in well in the Premier League.

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Neymar hails new Chelsea signing compared to Lionel Messi

Chelsea's recent signing Willian Estevao, who has drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi in his short career, has gotten Neymar's seal of approval. The 17-year-old has been tipped to become one of the finest players produced by Brazil and the former Barcelona star agrees with the sentiment.

Neymar spoke highly of the youngster in a recent discussion with the press. He said (via FotMob):

"I think Estevao is the big talent that is coming in Brazilian football. I think he will be a genius."

While comparisons to the legendary Lionel Messi might put pressure on a young player who only has a handful of games under his belt, he will be encouraged by Neymar's support.