Joao Pedro, the Hull City striker and former Cagliari star, recently opened up about his journey in football, reflecting on pivotal moments in his career during an interview with Cronache di Spogliatoio on April 16, 2025. The 33-year-old Brazilian, who has been a key player for Hull City this season, touched on various topics, including his time in Sardinia, his experiences with the Italian national team, and the emotional weight of certain matches.
Pedro recalled the intense atmosphere leading up to the crucial World Cup playoff match against Macedonia, where he questioned his worthiness to be part of the squad. “Before the playoff against Macedonia, I often wondered: ‘Do I deserve to be here?’” he admitted. His surprise at being called up to the national team after obtaining Italian citizenship in 2017 was palpable. “I was having coffee with the Cagliari kit men when sporting director Capozucca approached me. He said, ‘Italy has asked for you because they found out you have a passport.’ I didn’t understand: ‘But for what?’ He replied, ‘To call you up.’ I thought he was joking,” he explained, highlighting the disbelief that accompanied his selection.
Pedro’s national team debut came during a tense moment in the playoff, where he entered the match against Macedonia in the 89th minute with the score still tied at 0-0. Unfortunately, the match took a heartbreaking turn when Trajkovski scored, leaving Pedro and his teammates in a state of shock. “When that ball went in, everything went dark. In the locker room, there was no anger, just a profound sense of emptiness,” he shared, reflecting on the disappointment that followed.
Another significant moment in Pedro's career was the relegation battle with Cagliari. He vividly recalled the match against Venezia, where the pressure was immense. “We were playing for our lives. It was hard to explain that night… we just needed to score one goal. I would have wanted to score the ugliest goal in history at that moment,” he said, revealing the weight of expectation and fear that hung over the team. At halftime, they learned that Salernitana was losing heavily to Udinese, which added to the tension. “We looked at each other and thought, ‘Come on, guys, just one goal. It doesn’t matter how or who scores,’” he remembered. However, despite their efforts, they failed to find the net, leading to relegation.
Pedro took responsibility for the team’s struggles, acknowledging that he could have done more to lead and support his teammates during that difficult season. “If something was lacking, it was mostly my fault. I was unable to guide and help my teammates when they needed it most,” he confessed. The silence that followed their relegation was heavy for him, as he felt he should have been the one to address the fans. “They wanted to hear from someone, and that someone should have been me,” he stated, underscoring the emotional toll of the experience.
In 2018, Pedro faced another challenge when he was suspended for six months due to taking a contaminated supplement. “I couldn’t believe it. I was terrified I would have to quit football. I was battling with the feeling of ‘I didn’t do anything wrong intentionally, but how do I get out of this?’” he recounted. During his suspension, he continued to train alone, often struggling to find the motivation to get out of bed. “Cagliari supported me through it all, from old ladies to children. No one ever doubted me, which fueled my determination,” he said.
Pedro made a triumphant return to the pitch on September 16, 2018, scoring just three minutes into his comeback match against AC Milan. “That was the happiest moment of my career. I hadn’t felt that anxious about a game since I was a kid,” he recalled, emphasizing the joy of overcoming adversity. “When that ball went in, I was overwhelmed; it felt like a movie,” he added, highlighting the emotional release that followed his goal.
Reflecting on his teammates, Pedro praised Nicolo Barella’s fierce competitiveness and Leonardo Pavoletti’s exceptional heading ability. “Barella always gave his all for 90 minutes; he was relentless. And Pavoletti? He scored headers in ways I thought were impossible,” he marveled. He also shared a light-hearted moment involving a prank he orchestrated with Pavoletti, showcasing the camaraderie that developed during his time at Cagliari.
Pedro also expressed his respect for opponents like Giorgio Chiellini, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Leonardo Bonucci, who he found particularly challenging to face. “Bonucci was the most annoying because he could anticipate your every move. It’s infuriating when a defender is in your head,” he admitted.
As he continues his career at Hull City, Pedro is focused on helping his team avoid relegation in the Championship. With Hull set to face Swansea City on April 18 and Preston North End on April 21, he remains optimistic. “I believe that things will go well. I have great trust in my teammates, the club, the fans, and the manager,” he said confidently. “Each game will be like a final for us, and we need to show our character. I’m sure we will have a happy ending,” he added.
At 33, Pedro recognizes the importance of his experience within the squad. “I’m aware of my role and the weight of my voice. I want to pass that calmness onto my teammates,” he explained, emphasizing the need for composure in the crucial games ahead. “I know I should score and bring good energy to the team,” he concluded, demonstrating his commitment to contributing positively to Hull City’s campaign.
