Just 12 months ago, Chelsea became the World Champions by winning the Club World Cup. Fast forward to now, Chelsea finished the season in 10th place – but Joao Pedro was a shining light.
Chelsea’s Player of the Season, Pedro scored 23 goals in 53 games and laid on nine assists for the Blues. That includes his impact at last summer’s Club World Cup, helping Enzo Maresca’s side win the trophy.
DISCUSS: Gabriel Jesus as cover for Joao Pedro next season
After a tricky first half to the season, Pedro was one rare player to improve under Liam Rosenior. His form, however, was not enough to turn the tide for Rosenior or Chelsea, and the Blues finished in tenth place.
Bought for £60m, Pedro has been one of Chelsea’s best signings of the BlueCo era, and that earned interest from Barcelona. Chelsea have made him untouchable, and they are right to do just that.
Roberto Carlos’ verdict on Joao Pedro should excite Chelsea fans
Speaking to GOAL, Brazil legend Roberto Carlos was asked to pick his best Brazilian player from the 2025-26 season. Going through eight players two by two, Carlos was asked to pick Pedro or Arsenal’s Gabriel.
The latter has also enjoyed a sparkling season, playing a key role in Arsenal’s Premier League triumph and reaching the Champions League final, only to miss the crucial penalty in their shootout against PSG.
Carlos picked Pedro over Gabriel, but ended up by suggesting Vinicius Jr has enjoyed the best season of any Brazilian player this season. Pedro was not picked by Carlo Ancelotti for Brazil’s World Cup squad.
Player that Chelsea once tried to sign picked over Joao Pedro
Pedro was preferred to Gabriel, but Carlos then had to choose between Barcelona’s Raphinha and Pedro. The legendary left-back put the El Clasico rivalry aside to choose former Leeds United winger Raphinha.
What is a fair price for Joao Pedro? 🔮
He cost £60m a year ago…
Back in the summer of 2022, Raphinha was offered the chance to join Chelsea. But the then-Leeds star had his heart set on a move to Barcelona, and he pursued that, following his footballing idol Ronaldinho.
Former Chelsea star Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director, was Raphinha’s agent in 2023. Raphinha rejected Chelsea’s bid: “Rejecting an offer from Chelsea? Yes, because my dream was to wear the Barca shirt.”
Is Pedro a better player than Gabriel? They are difficult to compare given the difference in positions. The same goes for Raphinha but what isn’t in doubt, is that all three players have enjoyed excellent seasons.
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