Xabi Alonso has enough problems to worry about at Chelsea without creating another one for himself.

The Blues manager is under pressure to get results, but his handling of Estevao is becoming difficult to understand.

Chelsea have one of the most exciting young talents in world football on their books, yet the Brazilian has struggled to get a look in so far this season.

Alonso might have his reasons for being cautious with the teenager, but there is a danger that he is being far too careful with a player who could make a real difference.

And if things continue this way, the Chelsea manager could end up regretting it.

Alonso is making life unnecessarily difficult for himself

Estevao is not just another promising youngster who needs a few years to develop. He has already shown that he can produce moments of genuine quality at the highest level, and Chelsea spent a significant amount of money to bring him to Stamford Bridge for a reason.

Alonso needs to start treating him like a player who can help Chelsea win games, rather than someone who can wait patiently on the sidelines.

There is an argument for managing Estevao's minutes carefully. He is still young, the Premier League is physically demanding, and Alonso has several attacking options to consider.

There is a difference between protecting a young player and leaving him watching from the bench when Chelsea need something special, though.

The Brazilian has already shown his ability to change a game with his close control and willingness to take defenders on. Those are the qualities Chelsea lack when opponents sit deep.

His limited minutes is frustrating when injuries and suspensions open the door for someone to step up. Chelsea cannot expect to get the best out of their squad if talented players are not trusted when the circumstances call for them.

Alonso is entitled to make difficult decisions. That is part of being the manager at a club with Chelsea's ambitions. However, those decisions need to be justified by results, and overlooking a player of Estevao's ability becomes harder to defend if the team is struggling.

Chelsea cannot afford to lose faith in Estevao

The bigger concern is what happens if this situation drags on.

Despite being linked with multiple clubs by The Sun, there is no suggestion that Estevao is preparing to leave Chelsea, and the club should not panic simply because he's not starting every week.

Nevertheless, young players need to develop, especially when they have already shown they can compete at the highest level.

Chelsea have invested heavily in their future, and Estevao could become one of the most important players in the project. Allowing him to stall because he can't get on the pitch would be a terrible outcome for everyone.

Alonso also has his own reputation to consider. Chelsea fans want to see a team capable of competing for major honours, and that means making the most of the talent available rather than leaving potential match-winners on the bench.

Of course, one selection decision will not cost a manager his job. But a pattern of questionable decisions, combined with disappointing results, can quickly become a much bigger problem.

Alonso still has time to put things right. Giving Estevao a more prominent role would be a sensible place to start.