João Pedro Responds to Post-Match Clash with PSG’s Luis Enrique: “You Have to Accept It”
Chelsea striker João Pedro declined to comment in depth on a heated altercation with PSG coach Luis Enrique following Sunday’s Club World Cup final, choosing instead to focus on his team’s historic triumph.
Chelsea’s 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup final ended in celebration for the Blues and tension for their opponents. But it wasn’t just the scoreboard that drew attention. In the moments after the final whistle, Chelsea forward João Pedro appeared to be confronted by PSG manager Luis Enrique and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Despite the incident, João Pedro kept his cool when questioned by CazéTV, choosing not to escalate the matter.
“I don’t want to say anything. They were upset normal, they lost. But you have to accept it. Losing is part of it too,” said João Pedro. “We’re going to celebrate because we are champions.”
Final Tensions Boil Over
Witnesses at pitchside reported a verbal confrontation initiated by Luis Enrique and Donnarumma, allegedly targeting the Brazilian striker. The cause remains unclear, though some speculate it was sparked by João Pedro’s spirited celebration after scoring Chelsea’s third goal a stunning lob assisted by Cole Palmer.
Despite the post-match friction, Chelsea players and staff largely avoided confrontation, shifting focus to their remarkable victory.
A Dream Debut for João Pedro
João Pedro, 23, made his Chelsea debut during the tournament after a R$400 million transfer from Brighton. The striker quickly proved his worth, scoring three goals in two matches, including a clinical finish in the final.
His performance capped off a breakout week for the Brazilian forward, whose contributions helped secure Chelsea’s second Club World Cup title and a prize of $40 million.
“I think I’m living the inexplicable,” João Pedro added. “I’m very happy to be alongside this kid [Andrey Santos], who I saw as a child. When I was already a pro, he looked up to me. Now we’re winning together — that means a lot.”
Eyeing the Brazilian National Team
Both João Pedro and midfielder Andrey Santos are expected to be on Carlo Ancelotti’s radar for upcoming Brazil national team call-ups. With standout performances and growing chemistry, the duo could be part of Brazil’s new generation heading into the 2026 World Cup cycle.
“Being on the Brazilian national team is every boy’s dream,” João Pedro concluded. “I have to keep working. Now it’s about taking advantage of this moment.”
