Joao Pedro donned the number nine shirt for Chelsea at the start of the season, making an immediate impact by scoring a goal. In a thrilling encounter against Fulham, the Brazilian found the net just 31 seconds into the match, playing a crucial role in Xabi Alonso's team securing a 3-2 victory.
The 24-year-old striker also secured an improved contract with Chelsea, extending his stay until 2034, as reported by BBC Sport.
The number nine at Stamford Bridge has been historically linked with a so-called 'curse'. Since the departure of Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in 2004, many strikers, including Romelu Lukaku, Alvaro Morata, Gonzalo Higuain, Radamel Falcao, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have struggled to make their mark whilst wearing it. The last to wear it, Liam Delap, managed just one Premier League goal last season.
However, Joao Pedro seems unfazed by these discussions:
I don't believe in that. I don’t think a number can dictate such pressure.
Last season, Joao Pedro netted an impressive 20 goals across all competitions, becoming the first Chelsea forward since Diego Costa to reach that milestone.
After a challenging previous season, he has looked sharp during pre-season, scoring eight goals in seven matches before his lightning-quick goal against Fulham.
Xabi Alonso sees Joao Pedro as one of the key leaders in this new-look Chelsea squad, alongside Cole Palmer and Reece James. After the win over Fulham, he stressed the need for senior players to step up and guide their teammates.
