Cristiano Ronaldo-type of treatment: Chelsea’s new gem Estevao Willian gets identical special contract perk

Willian Estevao carries with him a mysterious contract detail, one once demanded by Cristiano Ronaldo during his time at Manchester United.

Chelsea’s summer spending spree has captured plenty of headlines, but amid the big-name arrivals and bold transfer moves, one story is stealing the spotlight for a different reason. A young Brazilian forward, touted as a potential future Ballon d’Or winner, has joined the London club — and carries with him a mysterious contract detail, one once demanded by Cristiano Ronaldo during his time at Manchester United.

What exactly is this rare clause? That answer lies deeper in the story, but for now, it’s worth noting that the inclusion of such a provision hints at the immense belief in this teenager’s potential — not just from Chelsea, but from his former club as well.

Chelsea announced in June 2024 that Willian Estevao, a then-17-year-old sensation from Palmeiras, would join the Blues on his 18th birthday in 2025. The transfer deal was secured after the forward dazzled in the Brazilian top flight, producing a string of performances that caught the attention of Europe’s elite.

Last week, the wait ended. In a pre-season friendly against Bayer Leverkusen at Stamford Bridge, Estevao made his debut and needed only 18 minutes to make his mark. Tapping in from close range after Cole Palmer’s shot hit the crossbar, the teenager introduced himself to Chelsea fans with confidence and composure.

The Blues went on to win 2-0, with Joao Pedro adding a late goal, but it was Estevao’s performance that became the talking point of the night. His display didn’t just impress the supporters; it won over his new teammates, too.

Praise after debut

In an interview with Diario AS, Estevao revealed that his ambitions stretch far beyond impressing at Stamford Bridge. He envisions himself competing for football’s highest individual honor alongside contemporaries like Lamine Yamal and Franco Mastantuono.

“I sincerely hope we can compete for the Ballon d’Or. We’re all from the same generation, and it would be incredible and very exciting to find ourselves in that situation,” Estevao said. Fans were equally enthusiastic online, with one supporter writing on X (formerly Twitter): “I’m not overreacting but Estevao is winning the Ballon d’Or.”

The unique Cristiano Ronaldo clause

Here’s where the story takes an intriguing turn. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Estevao’s contract includes a Ballon d’Or clause — an agreement that would see Palmeiras receive a bonus if the forward wins the award as a Chelsea player before 2033.

Such clauses are uncommon in football contracts, reserved only for players whose potential is seen as generational. The most notable precedent came in 2021, when Cristiano Ronaldo rejoined Manchester United with a similar arrangement — if he had claimed the Ballon d’Or, he would have received a $1.3 million bonus.