Brazilian striker Joao Pedro has admitted that he was initially worried about how Chelsea’s standout performer, Cole Palmer, would react when he joined the London club from Brighton & Hove Albion.

Pedro explained that upon his move to Stamford Bridge during the early stage of the 2025 summer transfer window, he feared Palmer might feel threatened by his presence, believing he was there to take his place as the team’s main attacking force.

In an interview with Standard Sport, the 23-year-old revealed details of his first meeting with the England international, describing the tension he felt before approaching Palmer.

“Cole is a superstar,” Pedro admitted. “When I came to Chelsea, I was a little bit nervous about his reaction because at Brighton, I was the key player. I knew joining Chelsea would be very different. I told him, ‘Cole, I’m here to help you.’ He understood it immediately, and now we support each other on the pitch.”

Since his arrival, Joao Pedro has been instrumental in Chelsea’s FIFA Club World Cup triumph, quickly becoming a crucial figure in Enzo Maresca’s squad. Despite his fears, Pedro emphasized that Palmer welcomed him warmly, and the two have since built a strong partnership that is beginning to flourish in the Premier League.

Pedro further stressed that their chemistry could help Chelsea compete for more silverware this season:

“He knows I can help him, and I know he can help me. Together, we can make Chelsea stronger and win more trophies.”

Chelsea have started the 2025/26 Premier League campaign on solid ground, securing two wins and one draw in their opening three fixtures. The Blues currently sit second in the league table, just behind Liverpool, which shows the progress being made under Maresca’s leadership.

Both Pedro and Palmer are expected to play key roles throughout the season, as Chelsea aim to challenge for domestic and European glory.