He can solve problems in the game - Maresca names one Chelsea player who will help him beat Brighton

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has showered praise on Joao Pedro for his impressive start to life at Stamford Bridge, highlighting the Brazilian’s quality, versatility, and influence ahead of Saturday’s clash against his former club Brighton and Hove Albion.

Since his summer arrival, the 24-year-old forward has quickly become a key figure in the Blues’ attack.

Pedro announced himself on the biggest stage by scoring a brace in the Club World Cup semi-final against Fluminense and netting in the final against PSG, helping Chelsea clinch the global title in the United States.

The momentum has carried into the Premier League campaign, with Pedro registering two goals and three assists in his first five league appearances.

“We knew that Joao was a very good player,” Maresca said in his pre-match press conference.

He added, “The scouting department did a fantastic job because they knew him very well from Brighton. We are very happy with Joao. Since he arrived, he has played almost every game. In some moments, we need to think to give him some rest, but we are very happy with him.”

One of the Brazilian’s biggest strengths, according to Maresca, is his versatility. The Chelsea boss has already deployed Pedro in various attacking roles, from a central striker to a second striker behind the forwards.

“He can solve situations and problems in games, which is very important,” Maresca added.

“That’s why we used him against Fulham and West Ham as a second striker, because he can also play between the strikers and midfielders. Since the Club World Cup, he has helped us a lot, and we don’t have any doubt that he will continue to help us this season.”

Chelsea will be counting on Pedro’s flair and adaptability when they welcome Brighton to Stamford Bridge, as the Blues aim to maintain momentum in their Premier League campaign.