Joao Pedro explains Rosenior’s influence after Napoli comeback

January 30, 2026 Oliver Obel

Joao Pedro’s description of Chelsea’s tactical demands under Liam Rosenior offered a revealing glimpse into why the forward has flourished this season and why a brief post-match interruption in Naples resonated so widely with supporters.

Speaking to CBS Sports after Chelsea’s dramatic 3–2 Champions League win over Napoli, Pedro contrasted Rosenior’s approach with that of former coach Enzo Maresca. “I think Liam is electric,” the Brazilian said. “He wants to play with more intensity, to be more compact.”

Pedro pointed to his own positioning during the match as an example of that thinking. “If you see my second goal, I was low,” he explained. “He wants us to come low to connect the team and create space for others to run behind. Enzo is more with the ball; he’s very good. But that’s the main difference.”

https://twitter.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/2016642427180773546?s=20

Those tactical adjustments were on display on Wednesday night as Chelsea overturned a deficit in Italy, with Pedro scoring twice in the second half to send the club into the Champions League round of 16. The forward now has 13 goal involvements since joining in the summer, the highest return among Premier League newcomers.

After full time, Rosenior expanded on the work that has gone on away from the pitch. Speaking in post-match remarks, the Chelsea head coach said he has spent considerable time speaking privately with Pedro since arriving at Stamford Bridge.

“I think I've had very, very good conversations with him already, probably four in my office,” Rosenior said. “I think he's sick of my office.”

The coach stressed that Pedro’s contribution goes beyond his finishing. “The two goals are fantastic,” Rosenior added, “but the way he held the ball up for the team, the way he sprinted and started that press the harder you work, the better you are as a player.”

Moments later, that trust surfaced in an unscripted exchange that quickly spread online. As Pedro was answering questions from reporters, Rosenior wandered into view. Spotting his coach, Pedro laughed and said, “The gaffer is great!” before the pair shared a brief embrace.

Fans responded enthusiastically on social media, with several pointing to the moment as evidence of a positive dressing-room dynamic. One supporter described it as a “healthy bond” between manager and player, while others said it made them feel more emotionally invested in the team’s progress.

For Chelsea, the episode was more than a viral clip. It reflected a working relationship that is translating into goals, tactical discipline, and after a tense night in Naples a place in the knockout stages of Europe’s top competition.

https://twitter.com/CFCJnR/status/2016672221876330576

Sources: Club interviews, CBS Sports