Joao Rodríguez

Joao Leandro Rodríguez González (born 19 May 1996) is a Colombian professional footballer who plays as a forward for Chelsea. He was the first Colombian to ever sign for the London club.

Career
Joao Rodríguez started part of his youth career with Colombian side Deportes Quindío. Eventually, Joao caught the eye as a prolific striker in the junior ranks of national Colombian football. His performances at the 2011 South American Under-15 Championships caught the eye of scouts worldwide, including those of Chelsea.

Chelsea
Joao spent two months on trial as an Under-16 and impressed enough to sign a pre-contract agreement for a five-year professional contract beginning on his seventeenth birthday. This made him the first Colombian in history to sign with the London club. As part of the agreement Rodríguez remained at Deportes Quindío to play for the 2012-13 season. The player officially joined Chelsea for the start of the 2013/14 season.

Uniautónoma (loan)
In January 2014 Rodríguez returned to Colombia on loan at Uniautónoma F.C.. He scored his first goal against Independiente Medellin.

Colombia national under-17 team
Joao has represented Colombia in the U15 side and represented Colombia during the 2013 South American Under-17 Football Championship held in Argentina. He was given the number 10 shirt. He made his debut in a 1-1 tie of the opening match against Paraguay. Throughout the group stages, Joao led Colombia to goalless draws without creating an impact. Only in the final group stage match against Argentina did he finally score his first goal. However, Colombia lost the match 3-2 and were knocked out.

Colombia national under-20 team
Joao joined the U-20 squad for the 2014 Toulon Tournament, where he scored his first goal in his debut against Brazil after being subbed in.