Chelsea has found a new star an ideal partner for the team’s main figure, Cole Palmer. His name is Joao Pedro, signed on July 2, and a key player in Enzo Maresca squad that recently won the FIFA Club World Cup by defeating PSG in the final.

A life marked by tragedy

At just 23 years old, Joao Pedro not only shines on the pitch but also carries with him a powerful life story one of hardship, resilience, and perseverance. When he was only one year old, his father, José João de Jesus, better known as Chicao and a former professional footballer (played for Botafogo-SP), was sentenced to 16 years in prison (serving 8) for complicity in a murder.

Joao Pedro was raised by his mother, Flavia, who was already separated from Chicao at the time. She raised him alone, and Joao grew up with a single dream: to support his family financially something he achieved through football.

From Fluminense to the world stage

It was Fluminense that gave Joao Pedro his debut as a professional. From there, he made his way to Watford, then Brighton, and finally transferred to Chelsea this past July.

Fate had a twist in store: in the Club World Cup semifinals, Joao Pedro faced his old team, Fluminense, scoring a brace to eliminate them. In the final against PSG, he scored again netting the third goal after an assist from Cole Palmer.

From the beaches of Rio to world champion

Joao Pedro was on vacation at the beaches of Rio de Janeiro when he received the call from Chelsea. Just days later, he joined the team and ended up lifting his first international trophy.

“The first thing I did after winning was call my mom and say: ‘Mom, I’m so happy to have fulfilled my dream of winning my first trophy as a professional footballer,’” the Brazilian striker shared.

A story that inspires

Joao Pedro’s journey is a true tale of resilience and success. From a difficult childhood to becoming a world champion with Chelsea, the young Brazilian not only fulfilled his dream, but also had the chance to thank his mother for all her sacrifices along the way.