Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has said Joao Pedro reminds him of Karim Benzema, praising the Brazilian forward’s intelligence, versatility and quality in all areas of attack.
Alonso played alongside Benzema during their successful spell at Real Madrid and believes Joao Pedro possesses a similarly complete skill set. The 24-year-old has become a central figure in Chelsea’s frontline, contributing both inside and outside the penalty area.
Joao Pedro’s all-round role draws Benzema comparison
“In many things, Joao Pedro reminds me of Karim Benzema. He is good in the box, he is good out of the box, he is good coming to his left side, he is good with the head, he is very complete and smart,” Alonso said.
The manager’s comments were relayed by Bobby Vincent and quoted by Fabrizio Romano.
Joao Pedro has not been limited to the role of a traditional penalty-box finisher. He regularly drops deeper to help build attacks, moves into wide areas to create space and contributes to chances for team-mates including Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers.
Joao Pedro has made a strong start for Chelsea
The forward’s early-season form has supported Alonso’s assessment. Joao Pedro has scored 15 goals across all competitions in 2026, more than any other Premier League player during that period.
His opening weeks of the campaign have included a goal and an assist against Fulham, another goal and assist against Brighton, and a goal and assist against Hull City.
