Reece James has sent a heartfelt message to Pedro Neto as Chelsea prepares to battle Benfica in the round 16 of the ongoing FIFA Club World. The 2025 Club World Cup has been an up and down experience for Chelsea so far.
While Enzo Maresca’s team has beaten Los Angeles FC and Esperance to secure a place in the last 16 of the tournament, it also suffered a damaging 3-1 defeat to Flamengo that exposed how the Blues remain a work-in-progress for the time being.
Enzo Maresca’s side are now finalising preparations to face Benfica, as they look to add a second piece of silverware under the new head coach, following their recent Conference League triumph.
One player who has quickly caught the eye is Neto, with the winger already scoring twice in the tournament. James showed his appreciation for the Portuguese star, sending a message of support ahead of the knockout clash.
Chelsea captain James shared a moment with Neto on social media ahead of the Club World Cup last-16 clash with Benfica.
James reposted a picture from training featuring himself and Neto, adding the caption:
“Ma brother”
while Neto returned the favour with his own post, writing
“Reeece”
followed by a blue heart emoji.
The Chelsea skipper endured a frustrating season last year, making just 12 Premier League starts due to ongoing injury problems. However, he ended the campaign strongly, playing a key role in helping the Blues secure Champions League qualification.
Chelsea supporters were left unimpressed with Maresca and his decision to occasionally deploy James in midfield, with Moises Caicedo filling in at right-back during certain matches.
As for Neto, despite an encouraging start to his Club World Cup campaign with two goals to his name, the Portuguese winger has faced scrutiny for his overall form over the season.
Chelsea fans have been frustrated with Neto’s performances as he scored just four league goals after his hefty price tag he came in for last summer. Nevertheless, both players will be hoping their recent performances can help Chelsea go all the way in the Club World Cup as they continue their push for more silverware.
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Neto endured an inconsistent first season as a Chelsea player after joining from Wolves last summer. The winger only scored four goals in 35 Premier League appearances, leading many to believe the Blues could find better than the Portuguese international in the transfer market this summer.
However, Neto’s two performances against LAFC and Flamengo at the Club World Cup have been eye-catching. He has given Chelsea purpose and verticality in its attacking play, stretching the pitch with his speed while also demonstrating final product and good decision-making in and around the opposition penalty area.
Recall, Softfootball earlier reported that Benfica boss Bruno Lage recently praised Pedro Neto’s explosive play and Enzo Fernandez’s intelligence ahead of their Club World Cup clash with Chelsea.
But Neto’s real test lies beyond this tournament. With Chelsea back in the Champions League, he must prove he can perform consistently at the highest level.
