Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte this week brings a big story telling the journey of João Pedro, who’s recently been signed by Watford.
The Fluminense wonderkid is joining the Hornets in 2020, when he turns 18. For now, he’s still playing youth tournaments for the Brazilian club, as he aims for promotion to the first team soon.
Globo Esporte explains João Pedro actually started as a defensive midfielder, and as he used to score lots of goals, he ended up moving to attack.
The player had ups and downs before Watford finally attempted to sign him, and he was lucky to be scouted right when he was in good form.
“Football is a rollercoaster. I was on the bench and I scored 10 goals in three games before the BH Cup, then I had an above-average performance in the competition. Watford were already watching and I ended up being sold.
“I did not believe when my agents came to talk and such. I was happy. My dream has always been to play in the Premier League. Already fulfilling the dream at first made me very happy. I’ve been working hard. I still want to work a lot at Flu to get out there and show my football.”
João Pedro’s mother was also interviewed by Globo Esporte, and has claimed that right after the Watford move was agreed, she saw the player sad, asking if he wouldn’t get a chance to play for Fluminense’s first team squad.
“Being sold so young is not for everyone. I was happy, but I thought I couldn’t play for the professionals. I spent my whole life at the club, I want to fulfil this dream. I don’t want to leave before that. I’m working and waiting.”