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According to a report by Football London on Saturday, October 17, 2026, Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has been urged to improve his goalscoring consistency by former Blues defender Glen Johnson, despite making an impressive start to the 2026/27 Premier League season.
Johnson believes the Brazilian still has room for improvement, even though he has established himself as an important part of Xabi Alonso's attacking setup at Stamford Bridge.
Pedro has scored five goals in five Premier League appearances this season, alongside providing three assists. Although he missed Chelsea's 3-0 defeat to Brentford, the forward has otherwise made a strong contribution to the team's attacking performances.
His impressive form has also strengthened his position in the Brazil national team under Carlo Ancelotti, while Chelsea have rewarded his progress with a new contract.
Since joining Chelsea from Brighton for £60 million, Pedro has recorded 28 goals and 12 assists in 59 appearances for the club, challenging previous doubts about his ability to become a prolific centre-forward.
Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca had questioned whether the Brazilian could score 20 goals in a season. However, Pedro has continued to demonstrate his finishing ability under subsequent managers.
Despite his progress, Johnson believes the 24-year-old must score more consistently to be considered among the world's elite strikers.
Speaking to PariuriX, the former Chelsea defender said: "To say that Joao Pedro is one of the best no.9s in the world would probably be an exaggeration.
"He is certainly a top player. I think you would like more goals from him. But as a player, in the way he combines and creates; very high level. But to be the best of the best, I think you have to really stand out."
Pedro's statistics nevertheless compare favourably with those of other Premier League forwards. Manchester City's Erling Haaland is the only player to have scored more league goals this season, averaging one every 88 minutes compared with Pedro's 86 minutes.
The Chelsea forward has also contributed a goal or assist every 54 minutes, highlighting his overall attacking influence. Alonso's tactical adjustments have reportedly helped improve his efficiency by giving him a more direct attacking role.