Xabi Alonso Backs Joao Pedro to Become a Premier League Leading Forward
Joao Pedro will head into Chelsea’s Premier League visit to Everton with five goals and three assists from his first five league appearances, and manager Xabi Alonso believes the Brazilian has the attributes to establish himself among the division’s leading forwards.
Why Joao Pedro’s form matters for Chelsea
The 25-year-old has made an immediate impact, most notably scoring twice in Chelsea’s 5-1 victory over Bournemouth. Alonso has been encouraged not only by the forward’s finishing but also by his willingness to combine with team-mates and contribute around the penalty area.
| Category | Figure |
|---|---|
| Joao Pedro’s age | 25 |
| Premier League appearances | 5 |
| Premier League goals | 5 |
| Premier League assists | 3 |
| Goals against Bournemouth | 2 |
| Result against Bournemouth | Chelsea 5-1 Bournemouth |
Alonso said the club had discussed the next stage of Joao Pedro’s development from the opening days of pre-season. The manager stressed that the striker’s current return is an encouraging beginning rather than the finished measure of his season.
“That is what we want and what he wants,” Alonso said. “It is not only about the five goals he has at the moment. We spoke from the first day of pre-season about the next level he wanted to reach, and he has begun very well in pre-season and in the campaign.”
For Alonso, the requirement for a forward aiming to reach the highest level in England is sustained influence throughout a 38-game league programme. He said Joao Pedro has been providing that impact so far and must maintain it.
The Chelsea head coach also pointed to the striker’s broader value. Joao Pedro wants to arrive in scoring positions, Alonso said, but is also prepared to support the side’s play near the box. His link-up work and connection with those around him have impressed the manager.
“He is in a good moment,” Alonso said. “He is hungry to have a very good season and he is scoring. He wants to be in the box, but he also wants to help the team around the box. He is a very complete player.”
Everton away provides the next test
Chelsea travel to the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday to face an Everton side placed fifth in the Premier League. The teams are separated only by goal difference, with Everton immediately above the Blues.
Alonso expects the away match to demand both quality on the ball and a strong response in the physical side of the contest. He described every Premier League fixture as difficult, with the challenge increasing on the road.
“We need to get many things right: football-wise, competitively, in the fights and duels, and when we have the ball,” he said. “It will be very demanding and a real challenge.”
