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João Pedro has hailed his “special” first season at Chelsea after firing himself into contention to lead the line for Brazil at this summer’s World Cup.
Only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland has scored more Premier League goals from open play this season than João Pedro, whose 14 strikes this season already represent his best return in English football.
Since the turn of the year, the Chelsea striker has 16 combined goals and assists in all club competitions — trailing only Bayern Munich and England star Harry Kane and fellow Bundesliga hotshot Deniz Undav across Europe’s ‘big five’ leagues.
João Pedro, a £60 million ($80m) arrival from Brighton last August, told UEFA.com: “I think my first year at Chelsea has been special.
“I came here to help. I believe I’ve been showing good form. I’m a player who always wants to improve, to reach my highest possible level.”
Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior agreed in a recent press conference that João Pedro is “in that category” with the likes of Haaland and Kane and said: “He’s a world-class striker. I wouldn’t swap João for anyone in this moment.”
João Pedro added: “When the new manager arrived, we had several conversations. I think my form is largely down to those conversations I’ve had with him, from him showing that he genuinely wants to help me improve. When you feel that support from your manager, you naturally push yourself harder every day.”
The 24-year-old has reportedly become the frontrunner to lead the line for Carlo Ancelotti’s side at this summer’s tournament.
His main rivals are largely drawn from the Premier League, with Tottenham’s Richarlison a regular starter for the national team and Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha also in their most recent squad — the pair have scored eight and six league goals respectively this season.
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Igor Thiago is second behind Haaland in the race for the Golden Boot, with the Brentford man’s 18-goal tally boosted by six from penalties. João Pedro ranks fourth behind Haaland’s club-mate Antoine Semenyo.
Vitor Roque has been prolific for Palmeiras, having returned home after failing to make an impact with Barcelona. João Pedro’s Chelsea team-mate Estêvão and Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior provide options from the wings along with Luiz Henrique of Zenit St Petersburg. Another Real star, Rodrygo, will miss the World Cup due to a cruciate knee ligament injury.
