Joao Pedro admitted to initial nervousness meeting Cole Palmer, calling him a ‘superstar,’ upon joining Chelsea. He quickly integrated, scoring in the Club World Cup and Premier League. Pedro emphasizes his partnership with Palmer and aims for more titles. He also eyes the Golden Boot amid tough competition and dreams of winning the Ballon d’Or. Pedro is optimistic about Chelsea’s chances in the Premier League and Champions League.
Joao Pedro has revealed his initial apprehension upon joining Chelsea, admitting he was “a little bit scared” to meet Cole Palmer, whom he considers a “superstar.” The Brazilian forward's candid admission sheds light on the dynamics within the Chelsea squad and his ambitions for the future.
Pedro arrived at Stamford Bridge from Brighton and Hove Albion during the Club World Cup period and quickly integrated into Enzo Maresca’s plans. His impact was immediate, netting three goals in as many Club World Cup appearances, including a crucial strike in the final. He has carried that form into the Premier League, scoring twice and providing two assists in his first three league games.
Cole Palmer, having established himself as a key figure at Chelsea over the past two seasons, boasts an impressive record of 37 goals and 19 assists in 70 league appearances. His consistent performances have earned him the “superstar” label, according to Pedro.
Following their Club World Cup triumph in the United States, Joao Pedro is eager to continue winning silverware alongside Palmer. The Brazilian international emphasizes the importance of their partnership and believes their chemistry on the pitch can lead to further success for Chelsea.
"Cole is a superstar," Joao Pedro told The Standard. "When I came to Chelsea I was a little bit scared about how he was going to react, because I was the main guy at Brighton. I knew Chelsea would be different. I said: ‘Cole, I’m here to help you.’ He knows I can help him, and I know he can help me. We have good chemistry on the pitch; I think he feels the same. Together, we can win more titles for Chelsea."
Pedro disclosed that he and Palmer frequently discuss their potential and how their combined efforts could benefit the team. "Cole doesn’t like to talk much, but we talk about how good the season can be if we link up. When I joined in the USA, he asked me how many goals I was going to score this season. I call him sometimes. After he didn’t play at West Ham, the next day I texted him. We have a very good relationship."
A strong start to his Chelsea career.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) September 4, 2025
Joao Pedro is rightfully up for #PL Player of the Month for August – get voting for our Brazilian now! 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/sgjL8X1gXQ
Chelsea's investment in their attacking options wasn't unique. Other Premier League clubs also bolstered their front lines, including Arsenal (Viktor Gyokeres), Liverpool (Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike), Manchester United (Benjamin Sesko), Tottenham (Randal Kolo Muani on loan), and Newcastle United (Nick Woltemade). This influx of talent sets the stage for a thrilling race for the Golden Boot, an individual accolade Joao Pedro is keenly targeting.
Beyond the Golden Boot, Joao Pedro harbors ambitions of winning the Ballon d’Or. "Big clubs from England have brought the top strikers from Europe this summer. It will be interesting to compete with them for the Golden Boot," Joao Pedro added. "It would be a dream one day to win the Ballon d’Or. I believe in myself. Everything is possible. Maybe it can happen."
Looking ahead to Chelsea's prospects for the season, Joao Pedro remains cautiously optimistic. "It’s too early to say whether we’re going to win it [the Premier League] or not. But if you watch us, you’ll say we have a good chance. I agree. If we won the Premier League and Champions League, it will be a top season. And if you win titles, you can be a legend." His focus remains fixed on contributing to team success and solidifying his place in Chelsea's history.