Enzo Maresca Reveals Call with World Class Coach Before Chelsea Signed Joao Pedro — And the Brazilian Just Repaid the Faith in Style

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has revealed that he called former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi before giving the green light to sign Brazilian forward Joao Pedro — and the new signing has wasted no time showing why that call was worth it.

Pedro, who officially joined Chelsea in a £60 million move from Brighton, made his debut for the Blues in their Club World Cup semi-final clash against Fluminense — and it couldn’t have gone any better. The 22-year-old scored twice in a commanding display, helping Chelsea secure a spot in the final with a 2-0 win.

Speaking earlier this week (via journalist Ben Jacobs), Maresca said: “I knew all about Joao. He’s Brazilian, first of all. And these kind of players often play with a smile, they enjoy their football. And I spoke with my friend Roberto De Zerbi about him.”

That conversation clearly gave Maresca the confidence to move forward with the transfer — and Pedro has now instantly justified that decision with a brilliant debut performance. He showed all the qualities Chelsea were hoping for: pace, flair, instinct in front of goal, and a fearless attitude.

Pedro’s first goal came midway through the first half — a well-timed finish after sharp movement in the box. His second came after the break, a clinical strike that left the Fluminense goalkeeper rooted to the spot. It was a perfect example of why Maresca sees him as a player ready to make an immediate impact.

Pedro had previously impressed at Brighton last season, scoring 11 goals in all competitions and showing he could thrive in the Premier League under De Zerbi. That relationship between the two managers proved to be a crucial factor in Chelsea’s recruitment.

“These Brazilian players bring joy and rhythm to the pitch. That’s the kind of energy we want to see at Chelsea,” Maresca explained.

Joao Pedro’s versatility — he can operate both centrally and out wide — fits perfectly into Maresca’s system. With injuries and suspensions limiting Chelsea’s attacking options, the former Watford man has quickly become an important part of the squad.

If today’s debut was a sign of what’s to come, Chelsea fans have every reason to be excited about the future of their new No. 9. And for Maresca, that one phone call to De Zerbi might already be paying off in goals.