João Pedro Shines on Chelsea Debut, Sends Blues to Club World Cup Final

João Pedro scored both goals as Chelsea beat Fluminense 2-0 to reach the Club World Cup final.

WHAT HAPPENED?

João Pedro joined Chelsea from Brighton earlier this month for a reported fee of £55-60 million and was thrust straight into the starting lineup by new manager Enzo Maresca due to Liam Delap’s suspension. With Chelsea’s attack looking blunt so far this season, João Pedro came up with the magic they needed, coolly slotting home from over-the-shoulder passes in both halves. Doe-eyed prodigy Cole Palmer looked lively but Chelsea struggled to break Fluminense down, as the Brazilian champions defended deep against them. However, João Pedro ensured his big-money transfer fee looked like a bargain in the span of 79 minutes during his debut.

João Pedro was signed for a fee reported to be closer to £60 million, according to previous reports.

CHELSEA’S STRONG START TO THE SEASON

Chelsea secured £25 million in prize money by reaching Tuesday’s final and will face Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain in the decider as they aim to clinch one of the biggest trophies in global football. Maresca has now won both of his games in charge; however, Chelsea finished fourth in the Premier League table last season, and they have to improve, especially in the attack, for next season if they want to improve and fight for the league title. João Pedro’s goal-scoring prowess can help them recover their status as English football’s elite, although Maresca will need a solution to their defensive vulnerabilities.

Chelsea won the Europa Conference League last season, which reflects their strong performance lately, as noted in recent updates.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CHELSEA AND JOÃO PEDRO?

Chelsea faces a daunting task on the weekend, as they will play their most difficult opponent to date when they try to get ahold of the Club World Cup trophy. João Pedro is sure to lead the line for them at Anfield, where he will be hoping to lead the Blues to victory.