Mikel Makes Big Predicts About Joao Pedro After Chelsea Debut Win
João Pedro Makes Instant Impression in Chelsea Debut as Blues Advance in Club World Cup
New Chelsea recruit João Pedro made his mark within 45 minutes of coming on, as he helped the Blues to a 2-1 quarterfinal victory over Palmeiras in the Club World Cup. The Brazilian’s debut game for Chelsea has already impressed both his teammates and legends of the club.
Instant Impact Off the Bench
The 23-year-old forward, who had just wrapped up his Stamford Bridge switch only days previously, replaced a player in the opening minutes of the second half with the match at 1-1. Though he failed to register a goal or assist, Pedro’s energy and quality introduced momentum Chelsea’s direction.
“João changed the game when he came on,” matchwinner Cole Palmer later said. “He gave us the injection we needed.”
Mikel Predicts Shining Future
Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel was particularly impressed with what he saw from the debutant in DAZN’s coverage of the match:
“He was lively, positive, and showed exactly why Chelsea signed him. His touch was great, and you could see his desire to impress. For a player who’s only had a brief spell training with the team, this was an absolutely superb debut. I think he’ll be a very, very good signing for us.”
Versatility a Key Asset
Pedro has declared his preference for operating in the central striker role, offering an intriguing rivalry with Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson. But his ability to play on the front line offers Maresca valuable tactical leeway.
@daznfootball João Pedro knows a thing or two about Fluminense, his boyhood club 🧐🇧🇷 Watch the @FIFAClubWorldCup | June 14 – July 13 | Every Game | Free | DAZN.com | #FIFACWC #TakeItToTheWorld #fyp #chelseafc #fluminense #brazil🇧🇷 #soccertiktok ♬ sonido original – DAZNFootball
Manager’s Trust Pays Off
The new signing revealed Maresca taught him in simple but effective language before his first game: “The manager told me to play carefree and to give everything – I think I did that. Most importantly, we’re through to the next round.”
This ability to play himself may be the key to Pedro adapting. From early indications, Maresca sees him as an attacking player capable of leading the line and creating from deeper areas.
With Chelsea set to face Fluminense in the semifinals, Pedro’s promising debut has given Blues fans cause for optimism as the team remains on its mission for international glory. His ability to leave his imprint so soon after limited training time tells a lot about his quality and potential at Stamford Bridge.
Mikel Makes Big Predicts About Joao Pedro After Chelsea Debut Win
