According to a report by Football London on Sunday October 18, 2026, Xabi Alonso has praised Pedro Neto following his impressive performance in Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, where the Portuguese winger scored twice to help the Blues climb to fourth place in the Premier League table.

After the match, Neto credited Portugal manager Jorge Jesus for helping improve his finishing, revealing that advice from his national team coach had influenced the way he strikes the ball, contributing to his outstanding performance against Everton.

Alonso has also played an important role in Neto’s development this season, deploying the 26-year-old as a wing-back. The tactical change has allowed him to exploit space, attack defenders directly, and become an increasingly influential figure in Chelsea’s attacking play.

Speaking after the victory, Alonso described Neto as a dangerous opponent for defenders across the game. He said, “He’s a threat against any full-back,” while expressing satisfaction with the winger’s contribution and Chelsea’s overall attacking performance.

The Chelsea manager also praised Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, and Morgan Rogers despite none of them finding the net against Everton. Their performances helped the team secure an important away victory, highlighting the squad’s ability to produce results beyond individual goalscoring contributions.

Neto’s two-goal performance has taken his Premier League tally to three this season, leaving him ahead of Palmer in league goals. His improved finishing has been encouraging, particularly after previous criticism surrounding his ability to deliver consistent end product in the final third.

Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has also recognised Neto’s importance, describing him as Chelsea’s “unsung hero.” The Portuguese international will now look to maintain his strong form when Chelsea face London rivals Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge.

Neto has also demonstrated impressive dribbling ability this season, averaging 1.4 successful dribbles per game, according to WhoScored. Palmer averages 1.7, while Rogers leads the trio with 1.9, placing Neto among Chelsea’s most effective players in one-on-one situations.

Operating near the touchline as a wing-back gives Neto opportunities to use his pace, movement, and dribbling skills against opposition defenders. Although there remains room for improvement, Alonso will be encouraged by his progress and the attacking threat he continues to provide.