João Pedro is on the verge of a milestone at a stadium that has witnessed many of his firsts—Maracanã. For the first time, he’s about to step onto the pitch wearing the national team jersey.
The iconic Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro has been part of João Pedro’s professional journey: his debut, first goal, and first hat-trick all happened here. “This stadium is very special to me. My debut, first goal, first hat-trick—it all happened here. So wearing the national team jersey and playing here will be a very special moment for me and my family. I hope I can score my first goal for Brazil; I’ve been waiting for this moment, and I know it’s getting closer,” said the 23-year-old Brazilian forward.
João Pedro joined Fluminense’s academy at the age of 10 and made his professional debut for the club before turning 18. Maracanã is the home ground of that club.
Brazil will face Chile in the World Cup qualifiers this Friday, and ahead of the match, Pedro shared his aspirations with the media.
Since making his Brazil debut in 2023, Pedro has played three matches for the national team but has yet to score. Currently, he is in fine form, having joined Chelsea from Brighton in early July. He played a key role in Chelsea’s Club World Cup triumph in the United States and scored two dazzling goals in his first start for his new club against his childhood club Fluminense. In three matches in the tournament, he scored three goals. In Chelsea’s first three Premier League matches of the season, he has already scored twice.
Reflecting on his move to Chelsea, Pedro said, “I am a young player, always trying to improve. Since joining Chelsea, people have been following me more closely. Two years ago, I was a young boy wanting to be here. Thanks to God, I believe I’m now one of the most-watched players in Europe. But I have to stay grounded and work hard.”
Pedro is determined not just to shine at the club level but also to secure a permanent place in the national team. “I try to do my work, focus on what I have to do. If someone pays too much attention to others, they forget themselves. I focus on my job at my club in England, knowing all eyes are on me. Ultimately, the decision is the coach’s. I trust that he will do what’s best for the national team. If I perform well, score, assist, I will stay here.”
With Neymar absent from the national team due to recurring injuries and forwards Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo not selected for the two-match squad, Pedro has an excellent opportunity to play and strengthen his spot.
Pedro’s path to football has not been easy. Born in São Paulo, his father, José João de Jesus—known as Chicão—was also a footballer who played for Bangu. Chicão faced legal troubles, including a 16-year prison sentence at the age of 23 and another arrest later for publicly threatening someone with a weapon.
During his father’s first imprisonment, Pedro’s mother moved with him to Rio de Janeiro, where he joined Fluminense’s academy. There were moments when he even considered quitting football. Grateful for how far he has come, Pedro said, “My family’s support was essential. There was a time in the youth academy when I thought about quitting. Life was hard, and I wasn’t getting much opportunity at Fluminense. My mother is a fighter; now she watches me on TV and is very proud. When I wear the national team jersey, I represent her. And of course, I also represent my country.”
