Joao Pedro could be in line to make his Chelsea debut as early as Friday, with Enzo Maresca revealing the Brazilian might feature in their Club World Cup quarter-final against Palmeiras following his £60 million ($81.5m) switch from Brighton. The 23-year-old has only just joined up with the squad in the United States after ending his summer holiday early.
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- Joao Pedro may debut in Club World Cup quarter-final
- Enzo Maresca hints at minutes for £60m signing
- Brazilian cut holiday short to join Chelsea squad early
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Chelsea confirmed the signing of Pedro from Brighton for £60 million earlier this week. The Brazilian forward flew to the United States to meet the squad ahead of their Club World Cup quarter-final clash in Philadelphia. Despite his recent arrival, he has already trained with the team and is under consideration for selection as per Blues boss Maresca.
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WHAT MARESCA SAID
Speaking to the media, Maresca said: "Joao's situation is a bit strange or different because he was on holiday.
"Even if he was working, it's not the same when you work for yourself compared to when you work with the team.
"But we are very happy with Joao. In the last two days, he worked with us, and we'll see if we need him (on Friday) or if we have a chance to give him some minutes, we're going to give him some minutes."
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Pedro’s addition comes at a vital time for Chelsea as they aim to bolster their attacking options for the latter stages of the Club World Cup. His versatility and Premier League pedigree make him a valuable asset for Maresca for next season and also for the tournament in the United States, as Chelsea look to make a deep run in the tournament.
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WHAT NEXT FOR PEDRO?
Chelsea face Palmeiras in Philadelphia on Friday, July 4, with a spot in the Club World Cup semi-finals on the line. If fit and sharp enough, Pedro could make his debut off the bench. His integration into Maresca’s plans will continue in the build-up to the new Premier League season.
