On the eve of our latest Premier League campaign – which starts on Monday evening with a London derby away to Fulham – the Brazilian penned fresh terms with the Blues that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2034.

And with the No.9 on his back for the season ahead, last season’s top scorer will be aiming to reach similar heights under Alonso, who has been delighted with the way the striker has applied himself in pre-season.

‘We talk a lot with Joao because he's not just a great player, but also a great person,’ Alonso said of the Brazilian international. ‘He has a great personality within the group.

‘I think that his development as a great player and as a leader is very noticeable every day, and in each game. He has this focus and this desire to have a great season, to score goals, but he is also focused on helping the team.

‘I'm very happy with Joao and with this news [signing a new contract]. I'm very impressed with his personality and now we need to help him in reaching his goals.’