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João Pedro credits Chelsea team-mates for strong start

·By Paul Vegas
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João Pedro credits Chelsea team-mates for strong start

Chelsea/X.com

João Pedro believes the quality around him at Chelsea has helped him take his game to another level, with the Brazilian also praising the trust he has received from manager Xabi Alonso.

The striker has made a productive start to the 2026-27 campaign, recording five goals and three assists in six starts, according to the figures reported by Fotbolltransfers. His output follows an encouraging debut season after his move from Brighton, when he registered 15 goals and eight assists in 35 Premier League appearances.

Pedro told ESPN that the standard of his team-mates has been a major factor in his progress.

“I think so, yes – especially here at Chelsea, where I am surrounded by world-class players such as Cole Palmer, Reece (James) and Moisés Caicedo,” he said.

His role as the central striker has also given him a clear opportunity. Pedro explained that he had been watching Chelsea’s attacking setup even before joining the club, having noticed the possibility of playing as a number nine.

“I think my adaptation went well because it had been a while since there was a number nine here. Ever since my time at Brighton, I had kept an eye on that position – even when I played against them, I knew it could be an opportunity for me,” he said.

Pedro had previously played in a deeper attacking role, but he was keen to make clear that he did not arrive at Stamford Bridge intending to compete with Palmer for the same position.

“I told him that I had come to help, that I didn’t want to take his place – nothing like that,” Pedro said.

The Brazilian also feels comfortable with the way Alonso has managed him. The Chelsea coach has given him responsibility in the centre of the attack, and Pedro believes that confidence has helped his performances.

“At Chelsea I feel very comfortable. It is a different season, with a coach who gives me a lot of confidence, and I think that is a big part of my performances so far this season,” he said.

Chelsea’s attacking options give Pedro room to combine with creative players rather than carry the burden alone. His early numbers suggest the arrangement is working, while the relationship with Palmer remains an important part of the forward’s adjustment to life at Stamford Bridge.

For Pedro, the task now is to maintain that output across the season and turn a strong start into consistent production.