Alonso Praises Joao Pedro, Comparing Him to Haaland and Benzema

7:11 AM ETConfirmed

Sports Desk

In Short: Chelsea's Xabi Alonso has praised Joao Pedro, comparing the young striker to Karim Benzema and Erling Haaland.

Joao Pedro has scored 25 goals since joining Chelsea last season, including one in a Club World Cup final, according to reports.

Alonso, who played alongside Benzema at Real Madrid, highlighted Pedro's similarities to the French striker, noting his all-around skills.

The Spaniard also drew comparisons to Haaland, praising Pedro's versatility and potential, despite his youth.

Pedro was named Premier League Player of the Month for September, marking his first win in the award since joining Chelsea.

Alonso believes Pedro's strong start has earned him a place in the Brazil squad, despite missing out on the World Cup selection.

What's confirmed

"In many things he reminds me of Benzema, because he is good in the box, he is good out of the box, he is good coming to his left side, he is good with the head, he is very complete, he is intelligent," added the Spaniard.

Joao Pedro signed a new contract at Stamford Bridge last month to stay until 2034, and was handed Chelsea 's number nine shirt at the start of the season.
It was the first time Joao Pedro has won the award as he finished ahead of team-mate Cole Palmer, who was Chelsea 's previous recipient in September 2024.
In his last 57 matches for City, Norway's Haaland has 42 goals and supplied nine assists.
Benzema won multiple Champions League titles and the Ballon d'Or while at Real Madrid Unlike Haaland, who is a specialist goalscorer, Joao Pedro has played as a midfielder, number 10 and winger during his career and possesses a more rounded skillset.
"So yes, he is still young, still things to develop, but many, many absolutely outstanding qualities that he has." Benzema, now 38 and a free agent, has scored 523 goals in 994 appearances for France, Lyon, Real Madrid and Saudi Arabian sides Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal.
Meanwhile, Joao Pedro was a surprise omission from Brazil's squad for the World Cup this summer, but has since been recalled for September's international fixtures against New Zealand and India.
“He has been outstanding. Not just in football terms, but in his personality, his maturity and his desire,” Alonso added.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso believes the Brazilian deserves to be ranked alongside Manchester City striker Erling Haaland among the Premier League’s leading forwards.