I know his qualities - PSG captain hails Chelsea's dangerous attacker

All eyes will be on the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey this Sunday as Chelsea lock horns with Paris Saint-Germain in the final of the 2024 FIFA Club World Cup.

Despite being viewed as underdogs, the youthful Chelsea side, under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, is set to challenge the might of the reigning UEFA Champions League winners.

While critics have questioned the timing and structure of FIFA’s newly expanded 32-team tournament, Chelsea’s route to the final has been both profitable and promising. The London club has reportedly earned around £86 million in prize money so far, making the competition a serious affair despite the mixed global reception.

Ahead of the high-profile encounter, PSG captain Marquinhos had glowing words for Chelsea forward Joao Pedro, who has shone brightly in the tournament.

Speaking during PSG’s pre-match press conference, the veteran defender highlighted Pedro’s strength, technique, and intelligence, warning his teammates to keep close tabs on the Brazilian attacker.

“I already knew about the qualities of Joao Pedro, and he has had a chance to show that at Chelsea already, because of the tournament that he is having. He is showing his qualities even more,” Marquinhos said via PSG’s official X account.

“We saw those qualities with the national team. He is a big physical player who is also technical and has very good movement. That is what makes a very complete striker… Of course, we will need to keep an eye on him as we do in every game," he added.

The 23-year-old striker, who only joined Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion at the start of July, has wasted no time settling in. After a lively showing off the bench against Palmeiras in the quarter-finals, Pedro underlined his quality by netting two superb goals in the semi-final win over Fluminense.