Xabi Alonso compares Chelsea striker Joao Pedro to Karim Benzema and Erling Haaland

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has praised Joao Pedro for his versatility and performance, comparing the 24-year-old forward to former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema. Alonso also placed the Brazilian in the same category as Manchester City's Erling Haaland following a strong start to the season. Joao Pedro was named the Premier League Player of the Month for August after contributing two goals and two assists in his first three matches. The forward has scored 25 goals in 57 appearances since joining Chelsea and recently signed a contract extension keeping him at Stamford Bridge until 2034. After being left out of the Brazil squad for the World Cup, Joao Pedro has been recalled for upcoming international fixtures against New Zealand and India. He currently operates in a front three alongside Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers as Chelsea prepares for a fixture against Hull at Stamford Bridge.

• 8:21 AMYahoo Sports — Joao Pedro is as good as Erling Haaland and reminds me of Karim Benzema, says Xabi Alonso
• 9:30 PMYahoo Sports — Like Benzema & as good as Haaland - Alonso on Joao Pedro
• 9:30 PMBBC Sport — Like Benzema & as good as Haaland - Alonso on Joao Pedro