Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink Highlights Four Traits Joao Pedro Shares with Karim Benzema Following Xabi Alonso’s Bold Comparison
Xabi Alonso, Chelsea’s manager, recently drew a striking parallel between striker Joao Pedro and former Real Madrid star Karim Benzema. This bold statement has found support from Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, who identified four key qualities that the young Brazilian forward shares with the celebrated French goal scorer.
Benzema’s Legendary Status
Karim Benzema stands among the finest forwards of his generation, often mentioned alongside prolific scorers like Robert Lewandowski, Luis Suarez, Sergio Aguero, and Harry Kane. After 14 seasons at Real Madrid, Benzema netted 354 goals and earned the Ballon d’Or in 2022. Once a part of the famous 'BBC' attacking trio with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, Benzema now finds himself a free agent following his exit from Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
Joao Pedro’s Rise at Chelsea
The 24-year-old Joao Pedro is still building his career but has made a promising start since his £60 million ($79 million) transfer from Brighton in 2025. He scored 20 goals in his first season at Stamford Bridge, earning admiration for his impact.
What Xabi Alonso Says About Pedro
“If you count how many top strikers we have in the Premier League, I’m sure that Joao is there. [Erling] Haaland for sure is there. So I would rate him that way.”
“He has a very strong goal this year: to have a great season, to score many goals, and to be a nominee not just for this month but more months. I am not surprised, but really happy with the kind of player we have here with Joao.”
“In many things he reminds me of Benzema because he is good in the box, good out of the box, good coming to his left side, good with the head. He is very complete, intelligent. Still young with things to develop, but many absolutely outstanding qualities.”
Hasselbaink Sees Clear Parallels
Speaking with GOAL in partnership with MrQ, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink explained why he understands the comparisons:
“I can see similarities. They’re both really technical and very intelligent. Both can drop into midfield and play. They’re calm in front of goal. Joao Pedro is not at Benzema’s level yet, but the traits are there.”
Chelsea’s Current Challenges and New Signings
Joao Pedro has scored three goals this season but has been sidelined recently due to a minor injury, limiting his chances to combine with creators Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer.
Chelsea’s defense has struggled, conceding 10 goals across their last four matches, and they’ve only gained one point in their past three Premier League games. To strengthen at the back, they signed World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emi Martinez from Aston Villa for £7.5 million ($10 million).
“The goals haven’t stopped, but I’m very pleased a character like Martinez has joined. He’s a big presence and a leader, qualities you can’t have enough of in your squad,” Hasselbaink said.
Looking Ahead
Chelsea hope to have Joao Pedro available for their upcoming home game against AFC Bournemouth on October 10. Manager Xabi Alonso faces the task of steadying the team during the international break as they look to regain momentum in the 2026-27 Premier League season.
- Upcoming fixture: Chelsea vs AFC Bournemouth, October 10, 2026, 17:00
