Joao Pedro: Where Does He Stand Among Premier League’s Top Strikers?
Joao Pedro has caught the eye as one of the Premier League’s leading forwards, according to former Chelsea striker Carlton Cole. The ex-Blues forward told GOAL that the player wearing the famous No.9 shirt at Stamford Bridge is capable of scoring in the "high double figures" this season.
The Brazilian striker has already netted three goals in the 2026-27 season, building on a strong debut campaign after joining Chelsea for a fee reported to reach £60 million in the summer of 2025. His move from Brighton, where he regularly delivered end product, marked a significant step up.
Early Career and International Standing
Before impressing in London, Pedro began his English journey with Watford as a talented teenager. Now 24, he has earned eight senior caps for Brazil but was unexpectedly left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s 2026 World Cup squad. That omission seems behind him as he starts brightly in domestic football.
With the support of England internationals Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers playing just behind him, Pedro finds plenty of chances to score. His overall game improves constantly as he sharpens his timing and movement into key positions.
Attributes and Comparison to Premier League Greats
Pedro possesses pace, strength, and accuracy—qualities that suit the Premier League's demands. He is now seen alongside top strikers like Manchester City’s Erling Haaland in terms of threat level.
Carlton Cole’s View on Pedro’s Potential
“He’s doing really well, the boy. When he’s not playing, you can see the effect it has on the team. So that’s a massive sign that he’s a big part of the set-up that [Xabi] Alonso is building,” Cole told GOAL via LiveScore Bet.“I think he could get into high double figures this season if used right and stays fit. He’s one to watch out for, definitely. Having the support of his ex-teammate [Danny] Welbeck helps him feel comfortable, knowing he’s not being displaced but supported.”
Cole added that only manager Alonso knows exactly how to encourage Pedro toward those numbers, with Welbeck playing a key role in supporting the striker’s progress. He praised Chelsea’s decision to back Pedro on his goal-scoring mission.
Alonso’s Praise: A Benzema Comparison
Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso sees Pedro as one of the Premier League’s top strikers. Having worked with legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Alonso compared Pedro to Real Madrid icon Karim Benzema.
“If you count the top strikers in the Premier League, I’m sure Joao is there alongside Haaland. He reminds me of Karim Benzema in many ways — good in and outside the box, can come to his left side, strong in the air, very complete and intelligent,” Alonso said.“He’s still young and has areas to develop, but he already has many outstanding qualities.”
Injury Update and Chelsea’s Upcoming Fixture
Pedro has been dealing with a minor knee injury but remains confident about securing his place among the likes of Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappe as a feared striker. Chelsea struggled before the international break, earning just one point from nine in the Premier League.
They hope to regain form when they return to action on October 10, hosting AFC Bournemouth.
- Match: Chelsea vs AFC Bournemouth
- Date: October 10, 2026
- Time: 17:00
