At only 21 years old, João Pedro has already come a long way in football. Revealed to the general public during his notable stint at Fluminense between 2019 and 2020, he caught the eye of Watford who recruited him before he even started with the Brazilian club’s first team.
What followed was a period of adaptation in England punctuated by loans, where he was able to accumulate experience despite his young age.
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A winning bet with Brighton which brings him closer to his Seleção dream
Convinced by his potential, Brighton spent nearly 20 million euros this summer to secure his services. A profitable choice since João Pedro quickly established himself as a starter in Roberto De Zerbi’s eleven.
During a recent interview with the GloboEsporte website, he returned to his atypical career path. “The road can sometimes be long for a player who arrives in Europe,” he explains, “but I remain calm and focused on my objective.”
Because among his ambitions the Brazilian National Team figures prominently. He got a taste of it recently when he was called up to the Pre-Olympic team where he was able to wear the famous number 10.
“It was a dream to wear this jersey, an immense source of pride,” he recalls. Despite this first positive experience, João Pedro refuses to skip ahead: “I am in no hurry to reach the senior national team, the most important thing is to continue to work and progress.”
A thought that corresponds to his football philosophy, based on work, humility and patience. Qualities that he applies on a daily basis in Brighton, where the leaders are under the spell. Author of 4 goals in 6 matches already this season, he is enjoying the total football advocated by Roberto De Zerbi.
“He gives me freedom of expression while asking me to put myself at the service of the collective, it’s very enriching,” appreciates the young striker.
Versatile, he can play in several sectors of the game. An asset which could ultimately allow him to gain playing time in the selection. Because if competition is raging in Brazil, its constant progress in recent months has not escaped observers. “My goal is to confirm in England and why not receive a call-up to the A team in the future,” he says with ambition.
