Chelsea’s Joao Pedro withdraws from Brazil squad with injury
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineChelsea forward Joao Pedro has withdrawn from the Brazil squad for the upcoming international break after suffering an injury.
The 24-year-old will miss Brazil’s friendlies against Australia and India, handing head coach Carlo Ancelotti his first squad change ahead of the matches.
Fluminense midfielder Matheus Martinelli has been called up to replace Pedro in the Selecao squad.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed the change on Wednesday.
“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 said on its official website.
Pedro’s withdrawal comes at an unfortunate time for the forward, who has made an impressive start to the Premier League campaign.
The Chelsea star has scored three goals and provided three assists in his first four matches, putting him among the league’s leading players for direct goal contributions.
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- Chelsea’s Joao Pedro withdraws from Brazil squad with injury
After missing out on Brazil’s squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Pedro had been looking to establish himself under Ancelotti and secure a regular place in the national team.
His form for Chelsea had strengthened his case for inclusion as Ancelotti begins to shape a new-look Brazil side.
Martinelli’s selection also reflects the Brazil head coach’s focus on assessing younger players ahead of future major tournaments.
Ancelotti’s squad for the upcoming friendlies features eight debutants, alongside players performing strongly in the Brazilian top flight.
The Italian said: “This is a balanced list, with players who were at the World Cup.
“It will be important for the next generation.
“We have young people, who have the quality to represent the National Team in the future, in the coming years, and also players who are performing very well in the Brazilian Championship.
“We have to prioritize young people who will be old enough for the next World Cup, or the next Copa America.”
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