Chelsea winger Pedro Neto has withdrawn from Portugal’s national squad. This is ahead of their World Cup qualifiers. The decision came after he was replaced in the 77th minute of Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Wolves. He went down to a groin issue. This looks like a decision made by the joint medical teams of both Chelsea and the Portuguese Football Federation.
What happened to Neto?
Neto scored Chelsea’s third goal against Wolves. Then he came off with a groin problem. This was followed by a discussion between the club’s medical team and Portugal’s health and performance department. He was then released from international duty to help him recover. Chelsea confirmed he did not travel with the squad for the Champions League tie earlier in the week. This signals how serious his condition really is.
Pedro Neto and Pedro Goncalves have been ruled out of the National Team’s games against the Republic of Ireland and Armenia due to injury. pic.twitter.com/gaB4SbGAC4
— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) November 10, 2025
The Bad Timing
The injury leaves Chelsea without one of their attacking options. This is serious because the season’s schedule will gradually intensify now. With key European and domestic games approaching, losing Neto means manager Enzo Maresca must adjust his squad. Although this loss is temporary, the tactical plans will have to be changed.
Broader Injury Tension at Chelsea
Neto’s setback adds to a growing list of concerns at Stamford Bridge. Earlier reports noted that Enzo Fernández pulled out from Argentina’s squad with a knee issue, and Chelsea continue to manage multiple injured players as they chase results on several fronts.
Author’s Insight
Here’s the bottom line: Pedro Neto’s withdrawal from Portugal duty is more than a minor hiccup—it’s a warning. For Chelsea, every player counts as the fixture list piles up. If Neto’s recovery drags, they’ll need other forwards to step up. For Neto himself, the focus must be on safe recovery rather than rushing back. A full return fit matters more than a quick comeback.
As featured on Chelseanews.com