Esteban: Countless moments when I dreamed of scoring my first goal in the Champions League. Enzo gave in? He was so good

October 23rd: Chelsea defeated Ajax in this round of the Champions League. Esteban scored. He was interviewed after the game.

Reporter: Esteban, your first goal in the Champions League has arrived. How are you feeling now? How many times have you thought and dreamed about this moment before falling asleep?

Esteban: First of all, I want to thank God for everything he has done in my life. I'm very happy for this first goal in the Champions League. I'm so happy, man! There are no other words to describe it as I have dreamed of this moment countless times. Thank God it has finally arrived. So, I dedicate this moment to my God and to my family who helped me get here. So, I feel very satisfied and very happy.

Reporter: I want to ask you about two moments. First of all, how did you feel when you found out you were going to start in your first Champions League game? Secondly, how did you feel when Enzo gave you the penalty kick?

Esteban: Well... I found out this morning. We had a meeting this morning. I found out the lineup...so anxious! I didn't even sleep late. I usually come in with a good night's sleep, but then the anxiety sets in. I barely slept. I'm very happy to play for Chelsea. We had a chance and knowing the coach confirmed the lineup... I'm very happy. As for Enzo, man, he was great and he gave me the chance to take the penalty.

Reporter: Did you expect it at the time?

Esteban: No! I didn't expect that. Because he has already scored the first goal. So I said he might want to get another one in. But then I looked at him and he gave me the ball. I'm very happy. This says a lot about our team. Our team is very united and a great fighting collective that wants to help each other. So, I think that reflects well on our teamwork. I'm happy to contribute to Chelsea.

Reporter: This also reflects how Chelsea embraces you. So, how has the club made you feel at home, despite the rain, since you arrived? By the way...I heard you even drive yourself to training now? Yeah? Is it easy to adjust to right-hand drive?

Esteban: It’s coming, it’s coming. I'm fine. After some trouble, and a few accidental drives in the wrong direction...I can now drive. I'm driving well and getting used to it. It’s cool, I can already drive myself to training. So, like I said, man, what I did for Chelsea made me happy, both on and off the pitch. Since I've been here I've felt at home and welcomed. I couldn’t be happier with the coaches, staff, board of directors, and my teammates for helping me adapt as quickly as possible. And, like I said, I couldn't be happier. I am so grateful to God for this.

Reporter: Can you understand the English spoken by your teammates?

Esteban: It's okay now. Not before. It takes practice and you get used to it gradually.

Reporter: That’s right. I've been here for about a month, one and a half to two months...

Esteban: So I've learned a little bit in the club. I communicate well now. I'm happy for this personal growth, it's what I needed. It is something that the team needs on a daily basis. So, I'm really happy with the growth I've had off the court because it's helped me a lot.

Reporter: Finally, I know: we have to take it one game at a time. In short, you have to think about tomorrow. But this is a season that ends with the World Cup. You have been called up by the national team and you have scored goals for the national team. In fact, just this year, right? First goal for the national team, first goal in the Premier League, first goal in the Champions League. To end at the World Cup, was that also the goal in your mind?

Esteban: Of course, without a doubt. I think that's the goal for all players: to play in the World Cup. So, I'm working really hard here, fighting every day, to be the best in training, to be the best in games, and to have the opportunity to be the best, like today. So, I'm very happy. Of course, everyone's dream is to play in the World Cup. So, no doubt, I will work very hard and hopefully, God willing, be there to represent my country.

Reporter: Where is Palmeiras in the Copa Libertadores?

Esteban: Of course, I believe in it. I was really rooting for them, texting those guys a lot and just really happy that they were doing well. They performed well in all competitions. That's my home, always will be.