Joao Pedro’s Stellar Start to the Season
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has drawn comparisons between forward Joao Pedro and top strikers Erling Haaland and Karim Benzema. Pedro’s strong start to the season has been a key factor in Chelsea’s early momentum. He was recently named Player of the Month for August, an award that recognized his significant contributions to the team.
Pedro recorded two goals and two assists in his initial three matches, showcasing a potent attacking presence. This performance earned him the Player of the Month title, beating out teammate Cole Palmer for the recognition. His consistent form has been crucial for Chelsea, especially within Alonso’s tactical system, which emphasizes mobility and precise decision-making from the attacking line.
The Brazilian international has committed his long-term future to the club with a contract extending until 2034, signaling his importance to Chelsea’s ongoing project at Cobham. Alonso has expressed his satisfaction with Pedro’s impact, noting his maturity and desire to achieve a successful season with many goals.
Alonso’s High Praise for Pedro
Alonso has been unequivocal in his assessment of Pedro, placing him among the elite strikers in the Premier League. When asked if Pedro could be compared to Haaland, who secured the Golden Boot last term, Alonso responded affirmatively. He stated, “I would say yes. If you count how many top strikers we have in the Premier League, I’m sure that Joao [Pedro] is there, Haaland for sure is there. So I would rate him that way.”
Beyond the comparison to Haaland, Alonso also sees similarities between Pedro and his former Real Madrid teammate and Ballon d’Or winner Benzema. Alonso highlighted Pedro’s versatile profile, noting his ability to influence play across various areas of the pitch. Pedro has been deployed as a midfielder, a number 10, and a winger, making him a challenging opponent for defensive lines.
Alonso elaborated on the comparison, stating, “In many things he reminds me of Benzema, because he is good in the box, he is good out of the box, he is good coming to his left side, he is good with the head, he is very complete, he is intelligent.” He acknowledged Pedro’s youth and potential for further development but emphasized his outstanding qualities.
Overcoming Setbacks and Future Focus
Despite his impressive domestic form, Pedro faced a significant disappointment when he was not included in the Brazil squad for the World Cup. However, he has channeled this setback into motivation, earning a recall for the September international window matches against New Zealand and India. Alonso noted that Pedro possessed sufficient internal drive and did not require additional motivation from the coaching staff.
Alonso commented on Pedro’s resilience, saying, “He had enough motivation. He already had enough within him, so I didn’t need to go there. It was painful for him, but that is in the past. We are now focused on what he is doing well and what he can do better.” He praised Pedro’s overall contribution, including his personality, maturity, and clear goal for the current season.
Pedro’s attacking partnership with Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers has also been highlighted as a key strength for Chelsea. The trio has collectively contributed six goals and four assists in three Premier League games. Pedro believes their differing styles complement each other effectively, with Palmer and Rogers excelling in passing and scoring, while Pedro often operates as a central striker, holding the ball.
Pedro will aim to continue his scoring run when Hull City visits Stamford Bridge. Alonso anticipates a challenging match against Hull, acknowledging their strong defensive record and belief under their coach. He stressed the importance of Chelsea being at their best to secure a victory.
The upcoming match against Hull City presents another opportunity for Pedro to demonstrate his capabilities and add to his goal tally for the season.
Source: livescore.com
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