Chelsea: Joao Pedro issues statement after signing new contract amid injury return update

Joao Pedro has taken a rather unusual step to explain why he chose to extend his Chelsea contract.Joao Pedro says he is excited about the future with the Blues, but has done so by posting on his LinkedIn page, instead of the usual social media platforms such as Instagram or X, formerly Twitter.He wrote: "Joining Chelsea Football Club was a huge moment for me, and looking back at everything that has happened since, I'm proud of how far we've come."I knew I was joining one of the biggest clubs in the world, with huge ambition and a special history. What I didn't know was how quickly the club, the people here and life in London would become such an important part of my life."Since then, I've experienced some incredible moments in a Chelsea shirt. Winning the FIFA Club World Cup, having a season I'm proud of, being voted Player of the Season by our supporters and having the pride of becoming Chelsea's number 9 are memories I'll always carry with me."But this isn't just about what we've already achieved.Being voted Player of the Season by our supporters and having the pride of becoming Chelsea's number 9 are memories I'll always carry with meJoao Pedro"For me, making a decision like this comes down to more than what is happening in the moment. It's about looking at where you are, what you still want to achieve and whether the environment around you is helping you get there."I think there is a lot to consider when deciding whether to stay or take on something new. Progress doesn't always mean choosing something different.“Sometimes it's recognising when you're surrounded by the right people, still learning, still being challenged and still excited by what you're building together."I believe in where this club is going, I believe in the people around me and I want to be part of what comes next. That's why I'm so proud to have committed my future to Chelsea and to continue this journey with the club."Joao Pedro is currently sidelined for ChelseaGettyRead MoreReports from ESPN in Brazil suggest the forward is facing a recovery period of about three weeks, which means he will only be sidelined for the Selecao’s friendly double-header against Australia.