In the first episode of CFC Unlocked, a new video series speaking to the Chelsea players, Pedro Neto reflects on his start to life at Stamford Bridge, including his fitness, form and positional flexibility, among a host of fascinating topics of discussion.
CFC Unlocked brings you closer to the players than ever and from the team hotel in Philadelphia, Neto opens up. The winger speaks about Club World Cup learnings, winning the UEFA Nations League with Portugal, and the significant role his family play in keeping him grounded.
Neto has scored in each of our games at the Club World Cup so far and he will be looking to add to that tally against ES Tunis later. It is proving a profitable end to a very promising first campaign in blue for the Portuguese.
‘It has been a really good first season,’ Neto told us.
‘The people around the club, and the structure of the club, have been really helpful and really kind to me. It already feels like home.
‘I could play more than 50 games, which I didn’t do for a long time. I could make some good appearances as well, although being honest I know I can do better. I was just trying to get myself into a better position of wellness, and it’s been really good.’
Knee, ankle and hamstring injuries had limited his playing time at Wolves in recent seasons, and Pedro expanded on the work that has gone on behind the scenes to ensure he has been fit and firing for Chelsea this term.
‘I had to take care of myself of more. I got a physio who is with me all the time and has been helping me a lot during the season.
‘I want to continue like that, and even improving. That is my mindset. Now I am much better in that aspect, I want to improve on the pitch as well.
‘It’s about momentum. Football is that. Football is you being consistent and continuing to take your level up. That is what I want to do, and what I will continue to do. I will work every day to keep doing that and be different from the others in different aspects.’
Watch the full video above to hear more from Pedro!