Chelsea Celebrates **Neto**’s Dedication After Emotional Match

In a touching display of camaraderie, **Chelsea** rallied around forward **Pedro Neto**, honoring his commitment following an emotional quarterfinal game against **Palmeiras** in Philadelphia.

Teammates Show Support

The team emphasized their bond with **Neto**, reiterating that his decision to play despite personal challenges was deeply appreciated. Before the quarterfinal game, **Neto** walked onto the field wearing a shirt displaying the names of his close friends.

“More than a friendship, we’re family, and we’re not going to stop being family just because you’ve decided to sign a contract a little further away from us!

When I go to the national team, you’ll still be by my side at the dinner table, on the bus, on the plane … you’ll always be there with me, as usual. We’ll keep laughing, making plans, sharing our lives with each other.

I’ll make sure you’re always there and I’ll make sure your family never lacks anything while you’re there, far away but thinking of us, waiting for us …

As of today, you’ll be on the pitch with me, and we’ll follow our path together, on the stage where we met.”

**Maresca** Praises **Neto**’s Resolve

**Chelsea** manager **Enzo Maresca** acknowledged **Neto**’s strength after their 2-1 victory. He confirmed that the decision to play was entirely **Neto**’s.

“We spoke with **Pedro** yesterday and this morning and this afternoon and it was completely **Pedro**’s decision to play or not to play,”

—Enzo Maresca, Chelsea Manager

**Maresca** added that **Neto** made a significant effort to participate alongside his teammates, an action the team deeply valued. The team dedicated their win to him, recognizing his closeness to the situation and the effort he invested. Sports teams that show support and cohesion often see better results both on and off the field, leading to increased morale and performance (Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology, 2017).

“He did, he made a fantastic effort to play this game, to play with his teammates, and we really appreciate what he has done.

I just said to the players that this win is especially for him because we know how close he was, and the effort that he has made. So no doubt that we really appreciate what he decided in the end.”