Chelsea’s Carabao Cup quarter-final win against Cardiff City exposed the difference in levels some members of their first team squad are at as we head towards the start of 2026.
Enzo Maresca handed plenty of fringe players the chance to make an impact in what was a big game for the Blues, although had to turn to his bench to get the 3-1 win over the line.
Joao Pedro was the unsung hero after Marc Guiu failed to impress for the Blues in a rare start, while summer signing Jamie Gittens‘ tough start to life at Stamford Bridge continued.
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The Brazilian was joined off the bench by Alejandro Garnacho, who scored a brace, and Pedro Neto, who also found the net.
Cardiff City v Chelsea - Carabao Cup Quarter Final
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Alan Smith praises Pedro Neto as a ‘really good’ signing for Chelsea
The Portugal international has really stepped up for Maresca this season in the absence of Cole Palmer, scoring six goals and assisting another three so far.
His crisp strike gave the Blues the lead after Cardiff pegged them back last night, with Sky Sports commentator Alan Smith admitting he had been very impressed by him at Chelsea since his move.
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Pedro Neto scores for Chelsea against Cardiff
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He said: “He’s been a really good signing for Chelsea. Consistent, whenever called upon, and this was a clean strike. Little bit of swerve on it as well. Through the legs, and it gets a little clip off Fagan which makes life even more difficult for Trott in goal.”
With Estevao Willian not fit to face Newcastle at the weekend, it looks a certainty that Neto will be back in the starting side for that game.
Pedro Neto scores for Chelsea against Cardiff
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Chelsea’s front four to face Newcastle is already clear
Despite Chelsea needing to turn to their bench last night, one positive was that they survived without Palmer in their matchday squad.
The Blues are managing his return, however he looks a certainty to feature behind the striker on Saturday.
Pedro will be up front without the competition of Liam Delap, while the two goalscorers from last night will start out wide to bring a pacy threat to the Newcastle backline.
Eddie Howe’s side will be reeling after a tough defeat to rivals Sunderland last time out, however have the chance before that game to restore some good faith when they face Fulham in the Carabao Cup this week.
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