Liam Duckstein
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Joao Pedro arrived at Chelsea’s pre-season with a point to prove, and a nine-minute hat-trick against Western Sydney Wanderers made that message impossible to ignore. The forward, who scored 20 goals across all competitions in his debut campaign for Chelsea and claimed the player of the year award, was left out of Brazil’s World Cup squad despite the national team being managed by his former club boss Carlo Ancelotti.
Read also: Joao Pedro Breaks Silence After Being Dropped From Brazil’s 2026 World Cup Squad
That omission may prove a motivational gift for Chelsea heading into the new season. A fully rested Joao Pedro, carrying the frustration of that international snub, is already showing sharp form.
But Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso is clear that the team cannot rely on one man to carry the attacking load. Last season, only Enzo Fernandez (15 goals) and Cole Palmer (11) joined Joao in reaching double figures. Alonso has challenged his new-look squad to distribute the goalscoring responsibility more evenly.
“He wants, after a great last year where he scored many goals, to keep scoring more and more. But we need to help him, as on his own it’s not possible. He will have the players around him and they need to have this hunger to score as well. It’s not just about the striker, but every time that we win and our striker scores, I am happy. He’s very hungry — Joao is really, really determined to have a great season.”
Winger Jamie Gittens is targeting a major step forward after a difficult first season at the club. The 21-year-old managed just five league starts and 12 starts in total across 27 appearances, contributing a single goal. His pre-season cameo from the bench showed a sharper, more confident player.
“I’m feeling better now. My injuries are healing up now, so I feel really good. I feel in a good space with the team and in my body as well.”
If Gittens can stay fit and contribute consistently, it would take direct pressure off Joao and give Alonso genuine attacking depth. The early signs from pre-season suggest Chelsea’s forward line carries real intent this campaign. Follow TipsGG for continued coverage of Chelsea’s season build-up and match analysis.