Chelsea winger Estevao faces an anxious wait over his participation in this summer's World Cup after suffering a season-ending hamstring injury that has cast serious doubt over his involvement in the tournament.

The 18-year-old pulled up during Saturday's 1-0 home defeat to Manchester United and was forced off the pitch, visibly distressed as he departed. Scans carried out afterwards confirmed a hamstring strain, ending his campaign with Chelsea immediately.

Tears at half-time

Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior did not hide his sympathy for the youngster following the match.

"He was devastated. He was crying at half-time. I'm really devastated for him," Rosenior said.

Estevao had been a consistent presence in Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil setup during the build-up to the World Cup, which is to be hosted in north America. Sources close to the player have told BBC Sport he will be fit in time to feature at the tournament — but whether Ancelotti opts to include him without any competitive football to assess his sharpness remains an open question.

Brazil open their World Cup group stage campaign against Morocco on 13 June, leaving Estevao with a narrow window to prove his fitness before selection decisions are finalised.

A difficult debut season

This is the second time Estevao has been sidelined with a hamstring problem this season, compounding what has been a frustrating campaign disrupted by injury. He is not alone in the treatment room — captain Reece James, forward Cole Palmer, and young attacker Jamie Gittens are all currently nursing similar issues.

Despite those setbacks, the teenager has made a strong impression in his maiden season at Stamford Bridge, contributing 8 goals and 4 assists across 36 appearances. He joined Chelsea last summer from Brazilian club Palmeiras for an initial fee of £29 million, with add-ons potentially taking the total to £80 million.

Chelsea's season unravelling

Estevao's injury arrives at a turbulent moment for the club. Chelsea suffered a 3-0 defeat at Brighton on Tuesday, dropping to seventh in the Premier League table. Champions League qualification is now in serious jeopardy, and Rosenior's own future in charge of the team is growing increasingly uncertain.