Instant Impact: João Pedro Arrives & Delivers for Chelsea!

Emmanuel Oladele Wednesday, July 09, 2025

Less than two weeks after signing, João Pedro has already become Chelsea’s match-winner. The Brazilian striker, who joined eight days ago, passed his medical seven days ago, signed his contract six days ago, and made his first-ever start yesterday—delivering a performance to remember.

Debut by the Numbers

18′ – Scores a sublime first-half goal, curling a brilliant strike into the top corner straight off his full debut.
56′ – Caps it off with a second stunning finish in the second half, sealing a 2-0 semi-final win in the Club World Cup.
Result: Chelsea into the final; Pedro named Man of the Match for his clinical double and tireless work rate.
Respect: He notably refused to celebrate either goal, lifting his hand in apology and showing respect to his Brazilian brothers at his former club, Fluminense.

What It Means

Pedro’s performance instantly pushes Nicolas Jackson down the pecking order for a starting role, showcasing that Chelsea’s £60 million investment (plus add-ons) is already paying dividends. Manager Enzo Maresca praised the “fantastic season” and hailed Pedro’s ability to do “what he has just done”.

The Road Ahead

Next Up: Pedro and Chelsea will face either Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid in the Club World Cup final this Sunday.
What’s at Stake: A Club World Cup trophy and a clear statement that Pedro is a major upgrade in the striker role.

WELCOME TO CHELSEA, JOÃO PEDRO! With two goals, two assists, and a trophy on the horizon, this transfer is already looking like a masterstroke.