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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has hailed João Pedro as a growing leader within his squad after the Brazilian striker committed his long-term future to the club by signing a new contract until 2034.
The 24-year-old put pen to paper on fresh terms ahead of Chelsea’s opening Premier League fixture of the new season, a London derby away to Fulham on Monday evening. The agreement further strengthens Pedro’s position at Stamford Bridge following an outstanding debut campaign in which he finished as the Blues’ top scorer with 20 goals in all competitions.
Pedro will also wear the club’s famous No.9 shirt during the season ahead, underlining his status as CHELSEA’s leading attacking figure. The striker has impressed Alonso throughout pre-season, with the Chelsea manager particularly pleased by his attitude, personality and growing influence within the group.
Alonso said Pedro’s value to the team extends beyond his ability in front of goal, describing the Brazil international as both an important player and a strong character in the dressing room
‘We talk a lot with Joao because he’s not just a great player, but also a great person,’ Alonso said of the Brazilian international. ‘He has a great personality within the group.
‘I think that his development as a great player and as a leader is very noticeable every day, and in each game. He has this focus and this desire to have a great season, to score goals, but he is also focused on helping the team.
‘I’m very happy with Joao and with this news [signing a new contract]. I’m very impressed with his personality and now we need to help him in reaching his goals.’
Deal is important for club and Alonso.
The CHELSEA boss wants his team to dominate possession, play through tight spaces and press aggressively when the ball is lost. His preferred system can use a 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1 shape, with wing-backs providing width and attackers combining centrally.
That is where João Pedro becomes crucial. He is not simply a striker who waits in the box. He can link play, drop deeper, combine with creative players and still provide the finishing touch. His ability to make the ball stick and bring others into the game could be vital to making Alonso’s attacking system work.
By committing until 2034, João Pedro gives CHELSEA stability and a genuine leader for the future.
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