Chelsea Legend Highlights Four Traits Joao Pedro Shares with Karim Benzema Following Xabi Alonso's Bold Comparison

Xabi Alonso Compares Joao Pedro to Karim Benzema

Xabi Alonso, Chelsea’s manager, has made a striking comparison between Chelsea striker Joao Pedro and former Real Madrid star Karim Benzema. The Brazilian forward has impressed since joining Chelsea for £60 million ($79m) from Brighton in 2025, scoring 20 goals in his first season. Alonso sees qualities in Pedro that remind him of Benzema’s style and influence.

Four Shared Qualities Highlighted by Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink

Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink agrees with Alonso’s assessment. In an exclusive interview with GOAL, Hasselbaink pointed out four key similarities between the two players:

• Technical skill: Both Pedro and Benzema display excellent ball control and technique.
• Intelligence: They possess strong game awareness, allowing them to make smart plays.
• Ability to drop into midfield: Each can move back from their striker position to link play creatively.
• Calmness in front of goal: Both remain composed when finishing chances.

Hasselbaink added, “Pedro is not at Benzema’s level yet, but the similarities are clear.”

Benzema’s Legacy and Pedro’s Rising Star

Karim Benzema is considered one of the best forwards of his generation. He scored 354 goals over 14 seasons at Real Madrid, forming part of the legendary ‘BBC’ trio alongside Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo. Benzema won the Ballon d’Or in 2022 and is known for his complete attacking ability—strong both inside and outside the box, adept with his head, and tactically intelligent.

Joao Pedro, still early in his career, has shown promising signs at Chelsea under Alonso’s guidance. The Spanish coach praised Pedro’s versatility and intelligence, noting that the striker is good with both feet and aerially, making him a well-rounded threat.

Chelsea’s Current Challenges and New Signings

Chelsea have struggled defensively, conceding 10 goals in their last four matches across competitions and earning just one point in three recent Premier League games. To strengthen their backline, they signed World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emi Martinez from Aston Villa for £7.5 million ($10m).

Hasselbaink welcomed Martinez’s arrival, emphasizing the importance of leadership and character in the squad: “He’s a big unit and a leader; you can’t have enough of those.” While Martinez hasn’t yet shown his best form, Hasselbaink believes he will settle in and help stabilize Chelsea’s defense.

Looking Ahead

Joao Pedro has missed some time due to a minor injury but is expected to return for Chelsea’s home fixture against Bournemouth on October 10, 2026. Chelsea will be hoping their key striker’s comeback sparks a better run of form as they try to improve in the Premier League.

• Upcoming match: Chelsea vs AFC Bournemouth
• Date: October 10, 2026
• Time: 17:00