Biography
Who is João Pedro?
Early life and family background
João Pedro Junqueira Jesus was born in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, on September 26, 2001. His mother is Flavia Junqueira, and his father is José João de Jesus, often called Chicão. His father was a professional footballer who played for Botafogo-SP. The parents separated around the time his father was imprisoned in 2002.
As a youth, he joined the academy system at Fluminense. His mother relocated with him to Rio de Janeiro to support his development. During his time at the club, he transitioned through different positions, starting as a defensive midfielder before moving to an attacking midfield role and eventually becoming a striker.
Professional career in Brazil and England
He made his senior debut for Fluminense on March 24, 2019, scoring in a match against Flamengo. Shortly after, he signed a deal to join the English club Watford in January 2020. He scored his first goal for Watford in September 2020 during a match against Luton Town.
In May 2023, he moved to Brighton & Hove Albion for a reported club-record fee of £30 million. He made an impact in the Europa League, finishing as the top scorer of the group stage with six goals. His tenure at Brighton included scoring his first Premier League goal of the 2024–25 season against Manchester United.
Chelsea transfer and achievements
On July 2, 2025, he joined Chelsea on a contract running until 2033. His debut occurred in the FIFA Club World Cup, where he helped the team secure a victory against Palmeiras. In that same tournament, he scored a brace against Fluminense and a goal in the final against Paris Saint-Germain to help Chelsea win the title.
His performance at Chelsea continued with goals in the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup competitions. He scored a hat-trick against Aston Villa in March 2026. In August 2026, he set a record for the fastest goal in the history of the Premier League's opening round by scoring 31 seconds into a match against Fulham.
International play and outside interests
He received his first call-up to the Brazil Olympic football team in August 2023. Later that year, in November, he was called up to the senior Brazil national team. He made his debut for the Seleção on November 16, 2023, during a match against Colombia.
Beyond his athletic career, he appeared in a short promotional film titled Confessions II in June 2026. This project was featured during the Danceteria segment of a production by the artist Madonna.
Birthday and age
João Pedro was born on September 26, 2001, which makes João 25 years old today. That birthday falls under the Libra sign. João shares the date with 65 other famous people.
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