Premier League defenders should beware of Chelsea’s number 20, Joao Pedro, going into the new season.

Ahead of every season, clubs have that key player whose performances could alter the course of their season, and for Chelsea, it is Joao Pedro.

Last season, the Brazilian striker moved to Stamford Bridge and was a revelation right from his first game.  Joao Pedro lit up the FIFA Club World Cup in his first game and was crucial to Chelsea’s eventual triumph in the final.

⚽️ Rogers
⚽️⚽️ Joao Pedro

Two popular @ChelseaFC assets end pre-season in style 🔥 pic.twitter.com/pdgolNGwE2

— Fantasy Premier League (@OfficialFPL) August 15, 2026

In the course of the 2025/26 season, Joao Pedro was the most consistent Chelsea attacker. His 20 non-penalty goals just go to show how much of a force he is on the attacking front. 

After a brilliant season, many would’ve expected him to make it to Brazil’s World Cup, but the Chelsea man didn’t make Ancelotti’s squad. That decision at the time was met with a lot of criticism, especially after Igor Thiago’s performance and with Brazil crashing out.

But not making the World Cup now seems to be a blessing in disguise.  Joao Pedro looks fully rested and has entered a new gear ahead of the 2026/27 season. 

Lovely goal, Joao Pedro! 🫡 pic.twitter.com/grLdCozaoF

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 15, 2026

Joao Pedro has been Chelsea’s best player this pre-season, scoring eight goals in seven pre-season games. The Brazilian has shown once again that he has the skill set to push Chelsea to glory or achieve whatever expectations they have for this season.

The new season is just a week away, and if he continues this form while his teammates play at their best, Chelsea’s season could turn out to be even better than originally hoped.