Chelsea Forward Joao Pedro Lifts the Lid on His Fixed Striker Role

Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has revealed what his ideal position is at Stamford Bridge, with the Brazil international admitting he had to personally force the coaching staff to give him a role as a pure centre-forward. The Brazilian joined from Brighton last July in a deal worth up to £60m, signing a long-term contract until 2033.

The 24-year-old has netted 15 Premier League goals and laid on five assists in 2,584 minutes this term, with 20 goals in all competitions. And he notched his first Chelsea hat-trick in an emphatic campaign, scoring three in a 4-1 away win at Aston Villa on March 4.

Joao Pedro spoke about his journey through various attacking positions throughout his English career:

“Since I arrived at Chelsea, I made it very clear because at Watford I played as a No.10, as a No.9. At Brighton too. But since coming here, it’s something I pushed for a lot – I wanted to play only as a No.9. When you keep changing positions, you lose some of the feeling for the role.

“Since the start of the season, I’ve been working a lot with Chelsea’s staff, always trying to improve in some aspects. I feel better playing as a striker, close to goal. But I’m not that striker who just stands waiting inside the box. I like participating in the game. I’m a participative No.9. I can build play and score a lot of goals too.”

The former Watford and Brighton man has traditionally been played across the front line, even dropping deeper to play as a No.10 in previous spells. But his bold claim seems to be paying dividends as he has fought off competition from Liam Delap to make the number nine spot his own.

Barcelona planning summer move for Chelsea star Joao Pedro

Reports have revealed that Spanish giants Barcelona have developed a strong admiration for Joao Pedro and believe he is a top-class striker option for next season. However, the Catalans have a Herculean task in extracting him from west London this summer.

This is because the Blues view the Brazilian as a key part of their long-term project, especially after a turbulent campaign in which he has probably been the only player to perform at a top level. The Blues are said to have told the 24-year-old he is not for sale this summer.

There are also reports that Xabi Alonso could be in the frame to take charge at Stamford Bridge, and the Catalans will have a tougher job in luring Joao Pedro away if the Blues get the Basque tactician. Joao Pedro is next expected to lead the Chelsea attack against Manchester City in the FA Cup on May 16.