00:01Alan Shearer has raised doubts about whether João Pedro can be the transformational figure
00:06to propel Chelsea into consistent title contention and Champions League qualification,
00:12despite an encouraging first season at Stamford Bridge.
00:16Chelsea secured Pedro's signature last summer, beating rivals including Newcastle United and the Brazilian,
00:21as responded with a promising output, scoring 14 goals in all competitions.
00:26His technical ability and intelligent movements have drawn widespread plaudits,
00:31as he often has been one of Chelsea's most creative attacking outlets this term.
00:36But speaking on the Restis football podcast, Premier League record goalscorer Shearer suggested that while Pedro is really, really talented,
00:44it remains a separate question whether he can elevate Chelsea into the upper echelons of the Premier League
00:50or into serious title and Champions League winning contention.
00:54The Blues' hopes of securing Champions League qualification hang in the balance after a 1-1 draw with Burnley,
01:00where Pedro's early goal was followed by a second-half red card for Wesley Fofana.
01:05Manager Liam Rossini acknowledged his side should have been more clinical,
01:10lamenting missed chances and a lack of penetration.
01:13As Chelsea strive for consistency and tangible progress,
01:16the debate over whether Pedro can be the difference-maker at the very top level will continue.
01:22A conversation rooted in both his evident quality and the club's broader structural challenges.
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