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Alexandre Pato sports new mustachioed look as he prepares for Chelsea debut

The Brazilian striker has joined on loan from Corinthians for the rest of the season

James Orr
Thursday 25 February 2016 18:50 GMT
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Willian's picture with Alexandre Pato from today
Willian's picture with Alexandre Pato from today

Alexandre Pato has sported a new look as he prepares for his Chelsea debut - the Brazilian striker now has a moustache.

His new look was unveiled today in a post on team-mate Willian's Instagram.

Pato, 26, has joined Chelsea on loan for the rest of the season from Corinthians as he hopes to rejuvenate his career.

Pato had been viewed as one of the most exciting young players in Europe when he joined Milan but his career stagnated in Italy after injury problems and he returned to Brazil in January 2013 having scored 63 goals in 150 appearances.

"I am so happy to sign for Chelsea. It is a dream for me. I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know my new team-mates and cannot wait to play," the 26-year-old told Chelsea's official website.

"I thank Chelsea for their support and hope I can repay this faith to the club and its fans."

He has made 27 appearances for the Brazil national team, scoring 10 goals, but has not played at international level since the 2012 Olympic Games.

Chelsea interim manager Guus Hiddink had earlier insisted signing Pato would not be a gamble.

Hiddink said: "Coming on loan makes it possible to have a good view on him, whether he is able to adapt to the high demands of the club and the league. It's not a gamble."

The Dutchman described the move as "a brave step" and the success or failure depends on the player.

He added: "It's up to him."

Chelsea travel to Southampton on Saturday, a game in which Pato could make his bow for the west London side.

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