João Pedro has praised his “remarkable” inaugural season with Chelsea, as he positions himself as a contender to lead Brazil’s attack in this summer’s World Cup.
Currently, only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland has netted more goals from open play in the Premier League this season than João Pedro, whose tally of 14 goals marks a personal best in English football.
Since the beginning of the year, the Chelsea forward has contributed a total of 16 goals and assists across all competitions, ranking behind only Bayern Munich and England‘s Harry Kane and Bundesliga sensation Deniz Undav among Europe’s top leagues.
Having joined Chelsea last August for £60 million ($80 million) from Brighton, João Pedro told UEFA.com: “I think my first year at Chelsea has been extraordinary.
“I came here to contribute, and I believe I’ve been demonstrating good form. I’m a player who is always looking to improve and reach my highest potential.”
Chelsea’s head coach, Liam Rosenior, affirmed in a recent press conference that João Pedro is “in that category” alongside stars like Haaland and Kane, stating: “He’s a world-class striker. At this moment, I wouldn’t trade João for anyone.”
João Pedro added: “When the new manager came in, we had multiple discussions. I believe my performance has significantly improved due to those conversations and his genuine desire to help me grow. When you feel that support from your manager, it motivates you to push yourself harder every day.”
The 24-year-old has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to spearhead Carlo Ancelotti’s squad in the upcoming tournament.
His primary competitors for the role hail mainly from the Premier League, with Tottenham’s Richarlison being a regular in the national team and Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha also included in the latest squad, with eight and six league goals respectively this season.
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Igor Thiago currently stands second behind Haaland in the Golden Boot race, having scored 18 goals, including six penalties. João Pedro is fourth, trailing behind Haaland’s teammate Antoine Semenyo.
Meanwhile, Vitor Roque has been performing exceptionally for Palmeiras after returning home following a stint with Barcelona. João Pedro’s Chelsea teammate Estêvão and Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior add wing options, along with Luiz Henrique from Zenit St Petersburg. However, another Real player, Rodrygo, will miss the World Cup due to a cruciate knee ligament injury.