Joao Pedro got the scoring underway in Chelsea’s 2-0 win against Brentford on Saturday.
In the first half, Pedro was presented with an opportunity that he was able to dispatch before Cole Palmer doubled Chelsea’s lead in the second 45 minutes.
Overall, Pedro put in a top display to help Liam Rosenior pick up his first Premier League win as Chelsea manager.
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Chelsea 2-0 Brentford graphic with Cole Palmer
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The forward has since spoken about his new head coach’s impact at the club.
Liam Rosenior, Manager of Chelsea, reacts during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Brentford
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Joao Pedro claims Liam Rosenior has instilled more bravery at Chelsea
According to Pedro, under Rosenior, Chelsea players are being encouraged to be braver.
Speaking following his side’s victory over Brentford, Pedro said via BBC Sport: “He wants us to be brave and play. It’s very good for us because we have talent.”
The 24-year-old’s goal against Keith Andrews’ men was his seventh in the Premier League this season, meaning that he is now Chelsea’s outright top scorer.
Joao Pedro grabs his seventh Premier League goal of the season against Brentford! ⚽️
Joao Pedro's 2025/26 Premier League stats
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Before the west London derby, Pedro was level with Enzo Fernandez on six. With Liam Delap fit again and causing defences problems, Pedro will have to continue performing if he wants to keep his place in the Chelsea team.
The Brazilian has spoken about competition with Delap, who won Chelsea their penalty against Brentford. At one stage, it did look like Delap would miss the Brentford match because of illness, but he was able to recover in time and make an impact.
Joao Pedro of Chelsea celebrates
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Joao Pedro on competition with Liam Delap
On having to compete with Delap for a place in Rosenior’s starting XI, Pedro said: “It’s not competition in a bad way. It’s good for both if both are fit. We want to help the team. If he starts, I will be ready. It’s good for Chelsea.”
While Pedro has scored seven Premier League goals this term, Delap has only managed to register one, which came as recently as this month in Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat to Fulham.
Of course, the 22-year-old has had injuries, limiting opportunities for him. Now that Delap is healthy again and playing, hopefully he can add to his tally and catch up with Pedro. It will only benefit Rosenior and his side in their bid to finish in the top four and qualify for next season’s Champions League.
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