Featured Image Credit: DAZN
Topics: Chelsea, FIFA Club World Cup, Brazil
Jack Kenmare
Joao Pedro was a man of his word after he decided against celebrating his debut goal for Chelsea in their Club World Cup semi-final clash against Fluminense.
The 23-year-old striker, who joined Chelsea from Brighton last week in a deal worth an initial £55 million plus £5 million in add-ons, found the back of the net with 18 minutes played at the MetLife Stadium, New York.
Moments later, Pedro held his hands up and refused to celebrate out of respect for his first professional club.
Pedro joined Fluminense's youth system at the age of 10 and moved to Rio de Janeiro with his mother. After progressing through the ranks, he went on to score 10 goals for the senior team before joining Watford.
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Ahead of kick-off on Tuesday, the striker was asked if he would celebrate against Fluminense.
"No, I don’t think so. It’s not about trying to end anyone’s dream, but I have to do my job," he said.
"I need to do my work. Of course, I’m very grateful for everything Fluminense has done for me, but I can’t stop doing my job. I don’t know how things will play out — anything can happen."
Pedro added: "I know how much it means to Fluminense, and I believe it’s just as important for us too. So, may the best team win, and may it be a great match and a great show for everyone."
Ahead of his much-anticipated debut, Pedro opened up on this summer's big-money move to Chelsea.
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"I was on holidays, but I was always training and if I’m going to start or not, it’s not my decision but I will try to improve, be ready for Enzo and if he needs me so we will see tomorrow," he said in an interview with BBC Sport.
"I was in Brazil, with my friends. In Rio but I have a personal trainer and I trained as well so I was ready. Imagine if I didn’t train and Chelsea called me to come then it would be more difficult for me. I was on holiday with friends and family but I made sure I was ready.
"I knew Chelsea had an interest in me so that’s why I was training harder and when they called me to come here I was ready, not 100% but ready enough to come here and train."
Some were surprised by Pedro's inclusion given his recent arrival, but Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca was keen to give him minutes.
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"The reason why we decided to involve him is because since he arrived, even if he was on holiday, he looks sharp, he looks good, and we wanted to give him some minutes," the Italian said.
Maresca added: "Also, I think with him and Noni (Madueke) inside the pitch, we were much better. With Joao, we knew him very well. The reason why he’s here is because we like him and we are sure that he’s going to help us."