Pedro Neto has received mixed reviews during his debut season in Chelsea colours, but one thing proves he’s quietly been a really important signing at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea splashed out £54m last summer to sign Pedro Neto from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Back in August 2024, Jamie Carragher hailed Neto’s move to Chelsea as the signing of the summer transfer window.
However, the 25-year-old winger hasn’t consistently hit his top level. His attacking output so far this season has been decent without being spectacular.
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Premier League | 30 | 4 | 4 |
| Conference League | 5 | 1 | 3 |
| FA Cup | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Conference League qualifiers | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Carabao Cup | 1 | 1 | 0 |
In terms of goals and assists, Martin Keown urged Neto to do more in Chelsea’s attack back in February. In the same month, Neto admitted he could improve his performances by insisting he could raise his level.
While the Portuguese winger isn’t delivering super high numbers yet, there is proof that he’s showed up in some huge moments when it’s mattered.
Three times Pedro Neto has showed up with crucial moments for Chelsea
It’s an extremely positive sign that Neto has popped up with some significant moments at Chelsea during this maiden season with them. If he can become a big-game player for the Blues, he’ll more than justify his price tag.
Here is a look at three eye-catching moments from Neto already for the club…
Scoring the winner against Fulham (20 April, 2025)
On Sunday, Chelsea needed two late goals to win 2-1 away at Fulham in the Premier League to keep them in the race for Champions League qualification.
Neto was the match-winner courtesy of his 93rd-minute rocket, which sent the away supporters at Craven Cottage into wild celebrations.
The left-footed wide man fired in a thunderous strike on the half-volley to clinch a vital three points. The fact he could do that in a West London derby under immense was extra special, too.
With Blues stars Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson both going through their respective dips in front of goal, Neto stood up with an outstanding finish for his team.
Alan Shearer praised Neto as Chelsea’s best player in the Fulham victory, so it’s a sign he can step up and be a talisman in certain moments for the side.
Sparking the comeback with goal versus West Ham (3 February, 2025)
In early February, Chelsea came from behind to win 2-1 at home to rivals West Ham in a Premier League clash. At the time, it was a result that moved them back into fourth spot in the division table as well.
Trailing to a Jarrod Bowen goal for the visitors, Chelsea drew level with Neto’s goal in the 64th minute. Afterwards, Aaron Wan-Bissaka netted an own goal 10 minutes later to decide the contest.
Neto’s strike was a low left-footed finish inside the penalty box, which came in a move that started with his delicious cross into the area.
Jason Cundy hailed Neto as the “catalyst” in Chelsea’s victory over West Ham because he came off the bench and got straight on the scoresheet.
Hitting the equaliser against Arsenal (10 November, 2024)
Back in November 2024, Chelsea fought from behind in the second half to record a 1-1 draw against rivals Arsenal.
Even though Gabriel Martinelli put the Gunners in front at Stamford Bridge, Neto replied in the 70th minute with a memorable equaliser. He unleashed a powerful low finish from outside the box into the bottom right corner.
Andy Townsend was in awe of Neto’s goal in the Arsenal draw, describing it as a “stunning strike”.
Like in the examples above, Neto stepped up for his team with a major goal in a fixture that means a bit extra to the Blues fanbase.
Emerging Pedro Neto pattern is proof his first Chelsea season hasn’t been a flop
Neto is popping up with big goals for Maresca’s side to earn important points. Hopefully, he’s still got one or two more tricks up his sleeve for the final weeks of the 2024/25 campaign.
We’ve never had much doubt regarding the individual talent of the former Wolves player, but he just needs to increase the volume of his goals and assists to get on par with the best wingers in the modern day.
We’re extremely happy to spot Neto is making a good habit of scoring big goals. It’s definitely something that supporters should factor in when assessing his debut season as well because we think he’s performed better than people may think.
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