Chelsea told 'smart' signing is behind Pedro's stunning form - and it is not Rogers

News

Matthew Judge | Editor

Chelsea have been told the “smart” signing of Danny Welbeck has had a major influence on the blistering form of Joao Pedro.

Pedro has flew out of the blocks in the early stages of the new season, registering three goals and as many assists in the Premier League.

The 24-year-old has been quick to forge an exciting partnership with Blues duo Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers in the attacking third.

STATS

João Pedro

F (C)

Chelsea

João Pedro

F (C)

Chelsea

All Tournaments

2026/27

• 5

  Games

• 3

  Goals

• 3

  Assists

View all stats

However, former Chelsea striker Carlton Cole believes the arrival of Welbeck has also had a huge impact on Pedro’s sparkling form.

Cole believes the experienced Welbeck, who joined from Brighton and Hove Albion in the summer, is an excellent role model for Pedro to learn from.

In an interview with LiveScore Bet via GOAL, Cole - who represented Chelsea between 2001 and 2006 - said of Pedro: “He's doing really well, the boy.

“When he's not playing, you can see the effect it has on the team. So that's a massive sign that he's a big part of the set-up that [Xabi] Alonso's building.

“And I'm looking at it, and I think he's one of those players that could actually get into high double figures this season if used correctly and stays fit. He's one of the ones to watch out for this season, definitely.

“He's got the tutelage of his ex-team-mate as well, [Danny] Welbeck, who's there too. So that makes him feel comfortable, knows that he's not coming to displace him rather than giving him that kind of feel.

“And only Alonso will know what type of encouragement he needs to be getting into those double figures.

“And maybe Welbeck is one of those guys that will support him getting into those numbers. I think it's a smart move from Chelsea to support Joao Pedro on his mission.”

Welbeck has already scored three goals for Chelsea this season

Acting as Pedro’s understudy so far this season, Welbeck has produced a brilliant return of three goals in just five appearances for Chelsea.

The 35-year-old scored his first goal for the west London club in the 2-0 win over Luton Town in the second round of the Carabao Cup in August.

And then Welbeck bagged a brace in the thrilling 6-3 victory over Leeds United in the next round in September, with both League Cup games taking place at Stamford Bridge.

Welbeck, Pedro and Chelsea will return to action when they host Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday, 10 October following the international break.

Xabi Alonso's side are winless in three league games, however, having lost to Arsenal and Brentford either side of a home draw with Hull City.

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