Pedro Neto’s conversion into a wing-back has provided Chelsea with a major tactical breakthrough, reminiscent of Victor Moses’ impact under Antonio Conte during their 2017 Premier League title run. The 26-year-old Portuguese international delivered a standout performance on Saturday, scoring twice in Chelsea’s 2-0 victory against Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
A Turnaround Following Summer Uncertainty
The recent surge in form marks a notable shift after a period of uncertainty over the player’s future. Chelsea had set an asking price of around £100m for Neto during the summer transfer window. He had grown frustrated late last season after former manager Enzo Maresca departed on New Year’s Day, followed by a brief stint under Liam Rosenior that saw the club finish in 10th place.
While teammates such as Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, Reece James, and Moises Caicedo signed new contracts over the summer, questions remained about how Neto would fit into new manager Xabi Alonso’s system. However, after establishing himself as a vital player under Alonso, Neto signed an extension committing his future to Stamford Bridge until 2032.
Statistically Elevated Attack and Defense
Alonso’s decision to alter Neto’s position has significantly boosted his output. Having joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £54m in 2024 after registering 14 goals and 27 assists in 135 matches, Neto managed 19 goals and 19 assists over his first 103 appearances for Chelsea. Under Alonso this season, he has recorded four goals and one assist across nine appearances, despite three of those coming as a substitute.
According to Premier League statistics, Neto’s touches in the opposition box have increased from 3.6 to 5.3 per 90 minutes compared to last season. His dribble success rate has risen from 43.5% to 52.6%, while overall chance creation has grown from 1.8 to 2.0 per 90 minutes. Concurrently, his defensive contribution has expanded, with average tackles per match jumping from 0.7 to 2.0 and possession recoveries increasing from 2.9 to 3.9.
Asymmetric System and Tactical Flexibility
Neto’s athletic foundation, which he has previously attributed to growing up in a family of roller-hockey players, allows him to influence both ends of the pitch. He previously demonstrated his defensive capabilities by man-marking Achraf Hakimi during Chelsea’s 3-0 victory against Paris Saint-Germain in the 2025 Club World Cup final.
Speaking about Neto’s versatile role following the win over Everton, Alonso praised his adaptability and competitiveness. “You can call him whatever you want. Winger, wing-back, attacking player, defensive player. He can do many things,” Alonso stated. “Today he did well. He is very competitive and whenever he is close to the action he is a threat against any full-back.”
Alonso employs an asymmetric setup that gives Neto greater freedom to attack on the right flank, while left-sided wing-backs such as Jorrel Hato or Pep Chavarria carry fewer attacking responsibilities. Neto has embraced his defensive duties, speaking with former Wolves teammate Conor Coady on Sky Sports after a 6-3 Carabao Cup victory over Leeds. Asked by Coady when he had ever worried about conceding, Neto replied, “Now I am a wing-back, lad,” before adding, “In my head, I always have to run back and help my defenders as well.”
Source: BBC Sport
