Alonso puts João Pedro on Haaland level and likens him to Real legend

Chelsea striker João Pedro has become Xabi Alonso’s favourite, with the manager saying the 24‑year‑old is on the same plane as Erling Haaland and even reminds him of Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema. He has started every Premier League game, scoring two goals and providing two assists, and was named August Player of the Month.

Alonso highlighted that the Brazilian is an absolute starter, never substituted in the first three rounds of the Premier League. He also noted João Pedro’s versatility, having operated as a second striker, a winger and even a number 10, a trait valued in the Campeonato Inglês.

Before the Saturday (12) clash with Hull City, the coach reiterated his praise, recalling the August award and answering a question with “Eu diria que sim”. He added, “Se você contar quantos atacantes de alto nível temos no futebol inglês, tenho certeza de que o João está entre eles”.

Real legend comparison

Alonso drew a parallel with Karim Benzema, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner who shared five seasons with the Spanish coach at Real Madrid. “Em muitas coisas, ele me lembra o francês”, he said, citing the Brazilian’s ability to operate inside and outside the box.

The striker finished the 2025/26 campaign with 20 goals, matching his tally from 2023/24 at Brighton, yet he was omitted from the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup, a tournament in which Brasil fell to Norway in the round of 16.

When asked if his form was a response to the national team snub, Alonso replied that João Pedro already possessed enough motivation and did not need to prove anything further. He later confirmed the player’s inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti’s first post‑World Cup squad for friendlies against Australia and India.

Para a próxima temporada, João Pedro will face a lighter schedule, competing only in the Premier League and domestic cups, which Alonso believes will keep him physically ready. He praised the striker’s personality, maturity and clear objective: to mount a great campaign and score many goals.