Estêvão Willian was not the only Brazilian forward to showcase promise during Chelsea’s victory over Palmeiras in the Club World Cup quarter-finals. João Pedro also made a significant impact after replacing Liam Delap shortly after Estêvão’s second-half equalizer, altering the game with his strength and smart play.
His performance stood out, especially since his £60m transfer to Chelsea had been confirmed just two days prior. The 23-year-old appeared in peak condition—strong, sharp, and fully prepared despite limited training time with his new team. While not directly involved in the decisive goal, his assertive presence played a key role in Chelsea regaining control after Palmeiras leveled the score.
“Even if he was on vacation, he looks sharp and ready,” manager Enzo Maresca remarked. João Pedro, previously linked with Newcastle, maintained his fitness even while waiting for a transfer. “I was in Brazil with friends, but I trained with a personal trainer to stay ready,” he said. “If Chelsea called me unprepared, I’d struggle. I proved I could contribute.”
His immediate impact pushed Nicolas Jackson further down the pecking order. While reading too much into one substitution can be premature, Maresca’s choice to bring on João Pedro instead of Jackson hinted at a potential shift in Chelsea’s attacking hierarchy. Liam Delap, the £30m signing from Ipswich, has also climbed ahead of Jackson, having started the last four matches and scoring once.
With Delap suspended for the semi-final against Fluminense after accumulating two yellow cards, Tuesday’s starting lineup remains uncertain. Jackson, who missed two group-stage matches due to a red card, faces growing pressure after being benched upon his return. His disciplinary issues—including a red card last season for elbowing Newcastle’s Sven Botman—raise further concerns. At 24, his inconsistency could prompt Chelsea to consider offers if they arise.
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