João Pedro Eyes Brazil World Cup Spot
Chelsea's João Pedro is calling his debut season "special" after becoming the second-highest scorer in the Premier League behind only Erling Haaland. His prolific form has made him a strong contender to lead Brazil's attack at this summer's World Cup.
Chelsea secured the forward in July 2025 for a reported fee of £55 million, plus £5 million in add-ons, signing him to a long-term deal that runs through 2033. The significant investment followed his standout performances at Brighton. His 14 Premier League goals this season actually place him fourth in the Golden Boot race. He trails Manchester City's Erling Haaland (22 goals), Brentford's Igor Thiago (18), and Manchester City's Antoine Semenyo (15). Before joining Chelsea, João Pedro had a breakout season at Brighton & Hove Albion, who paid a then-club-record £30 million for his services. He had previously spent four seasons with Watford after moving to England from his boyhood club Fluminense in Brazil. The 24-year-old made his senior debut for the Brazilian national team in November 2023 as a substitute in a 2-1 loss to Colombia. He has earned six caps for the *Seleção* to date. Competition for a spot in manager Carlo Ancelotti's World Cup squad is fierce. Other forwards recently called up include Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, Tottenham's Richarlison, and Wolves' Matheus Cunha. Originally a defensive midfielder in Fluminense's youth academy, he transitioned to an attacking midfielder and then a striker, the position where he ultimately flourished and attracted the attention of European clubs.
