João Pedro Junqueira de Jesus, born on September 26, 2001, in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, is a professional footballer known for his creativity, speed, and technical precision. He currently plays as a forward for Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League and represents the Brazil national team.
From humble beginnings in Brazil to commanding global recognition, João Pedro’s rise reflects both his determination and adaptability. His ability to thrive in multiple attacking roles has earned him admiration across Europe.
Quick Facts of João Pedro
| Full Name | João Pedro Junqueira de Jesus |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 26, 2001 |
| Place of Birth | Ribeirão Preto, Brazil |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Height | 1.82 m (5 ft 11.5 in) |
| Position | Forward |
| Current Club | Brighton & Hove Albion |
| National Team | Brazil |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Spouse | Carol Assis |
| Children | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth | Approx. £9.6 million |
Early Life and Family Background
João Pedro was born to Flávia Junqueira and José João de Jesus, also known as Chicão, a former footballer who played for Botafogo. When João Pedro was only a year old, his father was imprisoned for eight years. This experience deeply shaped his perspective on perseverance and purpose.
Driven by his passion for football, João Pedro joined the Fluminense youth academy in 2011 after relocating to Rio de Janeiro with his mother. Initially a defensive midfielder, he later transitioned to attacking positions, where his flair and agility stood out early on.
Career Beginnings and Rise to Prominence
João Pedro made his professional debut for Fluminense in 2019, immediately making headlines with eight goals in his first eleven matches. His hat-trick against Atlético Nacional in the Copa Sudamericana announced his arrival as one of Brazil’s top young prospects.
Watford FC recognized his potential early and agreed to sign him in 2018, with the transfer finalized in January 2020. During his four seasons at Watford, he made 109 appearances and scored 24 goals, proving himself a versatile and reliable forward.
In May 2023, João Pedro joined Brighton & Hove Albion for a record-breaking £30 million. Since then, he has become a crucial figure in the team’s attack, earning the captain’s armband thanks to his leadership and consistent performances.
Notable Achievements
- Professional Debut (2019): Scored 8 goals in 11 games for Fluminense.
- Watford FC (2020–2023): Registered 24 goals across all competitions.
- Record Transfer: Joined Brighton for £30 million — the club’s most expensive signing.
- International Career: Debuted for Brazil in November 2023 during World Cup qualifiers.
Recent Form and Impact
As of March 2025, João Pedro has delivered a stellar Premier League campaign, recording 7 goals and 6 assists in 27 matches. His influence extends beyond scoring — his movement, creativity, and leadership have cemented his position as one of the league’s most promising forwards.
His continued excellence has kept him on the radar of the Brazil national team, where he competes among elite talents for a regular starting role.
Personal Life
In 2019, João Pedro began dating Brazilian actress Mel Maia, attracting significant media attention. After parting ways in 2020, he later married Carol Assis, a digital influencer. Their shared love for travel and lifestyle has made them fan favorites among supporters.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
João Pedro’s estimated net worth of £9.6 million primarily comes from his football contracts and endorsements. His current deal with Brighton runs until June 2028, earning him about £2.6 million annually.
Despite his success, he remains humble and grounded, often crediting his mother for keeping him focused. João Pedro occasionally invests in business ventures and supports several charities in Brazil.
Interesting Facts
- Leadership: One of the youngest captains in Brighton’s history.
- Penalty Expert: Known for his calmness in high-pressure moments.
- Multilingual: Fluent in Portuguese and English.
- Philanthropy: Actively supports youth football initiatives in Brazil.
- Inspiration: His journey from adversity to stardom continues to motivate young athletes worldwide.
Charitable Work and Legacy
In 2022, João Pedro launched a foundation supporting underprivileged children through sports education and mentorship. His organization provides scholarships and football training programs across Brazil, helping youths pursue education alongside athletics.
Beyond the pitch, his commitment to social change strengthens his reputation as a role model who embodies humility and hope.
Future Outlook and Cultural Influence
Looking ahead, João Pedro aims to refine his skills and reach new heights in European football. Several major clubs across Spain, Italy, and France have already shown interest in him. His ambitions also include establishing himself as a key figure in Brazil’s World Cup campaigns.
João Pedro’s influence extends well beyond football. His resilience, leadership, and charitable initiatives highlight a new generation of athletes who balance success with social responsibility.
