Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has compared striker Joao Pedro to Karim Benzema, highlighting the player's intelligence and his versatility in operating both inside and outside the penalty area. Alonso further stated that the forward is currently performing at a level comparable to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland.
This assessment follows Joao Pedro’s recognition as the Premier League Player of the Month for August 2026. Since joining Chelsea last summer, the forward has recorded 25 goals and 11 assists across 57 appearances for the club.
The player recently secured his long-term future at Stamford Bridge by signing a contract extension last month that runs until 2034. Following his recent club performances, Joao Pedro has been recalled to the Brazil national team squad for their upcoming September 2026 fixtures against New Zealand and India.