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Joao Pedro reveals the real reason he chose to stay at Chelsea

London, England, 12th September 2026. Joao Pedro of Chelsea during the Chelsea vs Hull City Premier League match at Stamford Bridge, London.

The 2025/26 season was a disaster for Chelsea, finishing tenth, winning only one of their last five Premier League games. Joao Pedro was their star player, scoring 20 goals in 50 games in all competitions. He was linked with a move to Barcelona during the summer, but ultimately began the season at Stamford Bridge under the new manager, Xabi Alonso. The Brazilian forward ultimately decided to sign a new contract with the club, and has now revealed his reasons for staying at Stamford Bridge.

Joao Pedro becomes the main man at Stamford Bridge

Pedro has become a revelation at Stamford Bridge, becoming the club’s number one striker. After the disastrous showing during the 2025/26 season, Pedro was the shining light among many awful performances.

Securing the Brazilian to a new deal last month was a huge boost for the club, and now their star striker has released a statement explaining his reasons for staying at Stamford Bridge:

“Joining Chelsea Football Club was a huge moment for me, and looking back at everything that has happened since, I’m proud of how far we’ve come.

I knew I was joining one of the biggest clubs in the world, with huge ambition and a special history. What I didn’t know was how quickly the club, the people here and life in London would become such an important part of my life.

Since then, I’ve experienced some incredible moments in a Chelsea shirt. Winning the FIFA Club World Cup, having a season I’m proud of, being voted Player of the Season by our supporters and having the pride of becoming Chelsea’s number 9 are memories I’ll always carry with me.

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But this isn’t just about what we’ve already achieved.

For me, making a decision like this comes down to more than what is happening in the moment. It’s about looking at where you are, what you still want to achieve and whether the environment around you is helping you get there.

I think there is a lot to consider when deciding whether to stay or take on something new. Progress doesn’t always mean choosing something different. Sometimes it’s recognising when you’re surrounded by the right people, still learning, still being challenged and still excited by what you’re building together.

I believe in where this club is going, I believe in the people around me and I want to be part of what comes next.

That’s why I’m so proud to have committed my future to Chelsea and to continue this journey with the club.”

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Chelsea v Leeds United, Carabao cup, League cup. Chelsea forward Joao Pedro (9) during the Carabao cup match between Chelsea and Leeds United at Stamford Bridge, London, UK on 9 September 2026.

The Last Word

Joao Pedro is a vital weapon for Alonso, and to see his impact, you only have to watch the void his absence left against Brentford. Chelsea were toothless in attack, and it just made it clear how important the Brazilian is.

He’s an excellent focal point. He’s brilliant at dropping deep and linking up with his teammates. Pedro is also adept at getting his body in between the ball and the opposition, often winning free-kicks when doing so. He’s comfortable drifting outwide and dragging opponents out of position, creating space for his teammates. Since making the central striking role at Chelsea his own, his movement and finishing ability have stood out.

It’s not been a great start to the season for Xabi Alonso’s team, but if they are to improve, the form and fitness of Joao Pedro are key.