Why will João Pedro miss Brazil vs India & Australia friendlies in upcoming international window?
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The striker was also left out of Seleção’s World Cup squad.
João Pedro has withdrawn from the Brazil team due to an injury. The Brazilian soccer association said on Wednesday that Chelsea’s striker will be replaced by Fluminense’s Martinelli.
Pedro was unexpectedly left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s 2026 World Cup team, but was named in the most recent team for the September-October international window.
Brazil’s federation failed to specify João Pedro’s ailment. He’s had a great start to the season, hitting three goals in six appearances across all competitions. He was selected Premier League Player of the Month in August.
Joao Pedro withdraws from Brazil’s squad
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João Pedro played and scored in a 2-2 tie against Hull last weekend. He picked up a knee injury after landing awkwardly from an aerial duel. Although he stayed on the pitch, the pain persisted, and he later underwent medical examinations.
Chelsea now face Brentford in their last fixture before the international break on Friday.
“Fluminense player Martinelli was called up this Wednesday by coach Carlo Ancelotti for the Brazilian National Team’s friendlies against Australia and India, in this next FIFA Date. The player will replace Chelsea striker Joao Pedro, who is injured,” The CBF confirmed the news on their official website.
The setback comes at a particularly bad time for Pedro, who was perhaps the most successful offensive player in the Premier League during the first month of the season. The 24-year-old has three goals and three assists in Chelsea’s opening four games, ranking atop the league for direct goal contributions.
Brazil’s matches against Australia and India at the close of the month will be their first since their unfortunate early departure from the World Cup, where they lost to Norway in the round of 16.
Despite being crowned Chelsea’s club player of the season, João Pedro was not selected for the 2026 World Cup, surprising several. Neymar, a Brazil legend, was picked but made only two substitute appearances.
Which injury has Joao Pedro suffered?
Pedro has picked up a knee injury.
How long will Joao Pedro be out?
He will undergo scans that will confirm his return timeline.
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