sports
Chelsea's Xabi Alonso Compares Joao Pedro to Benzema and Haaland
Xabi Alonso praises Joao Pedro, likening his playing style to Karim Benzema and suggesting he matches Erling Haaland's skill level.
10/2/2026, 10:45:48 PM
Xabi Alonso, the manager of Chelsea, has drawn notable parallels between his striker Joao Pedro and two of football's top talents, Karim Benzema and Erling Haaland. According to BBC Sport, Alonso believes that Pedro's playing style is strikingly similar to that of his former Real Madrid teammate, Benzema, renowned for his versatility and ability to impact the game in numerous ways.
Alonso's comments underscore Pedro's rising profile in the football world, suggesting he is not only promising but also capable of competing on par with some of the best forwards in the league, including Manchester City’s Haaland. The Chelsea manager highlighted Pedro's unique skill set, which he argues combines the best characteristics of both players, enabling him to navigate defences effectively and create scoring opportunities.
As Chelsea continues to build a formidable squad, the emphasis on having such a player as Pedro is clear. His capacity to contribute to the team's offensive play is seen as crucial, particularly as the club aims for success in both domestic and European competitions. With the comparisons made by Alonso, Pedro is being positioned as a central figure for Chelsea's future.
By drawing these parallels, Alonso not only boosts Pedro's confidence but also sets the stage for expectations surrounding the young striker's performances as the season progresses. Whether Pedro can translate these high comparisons into consistent on-field success remains to be seen, but the early signs have been promising for both the player and the club as they pursue their ambitions in the Premier League.