Enzo Maresca will have been pleased to see Pedro Neto decided not to travel to represent his country during the current international break.
Neto has been a near ever-present for the Blues this season, and this status is reflected by him being a regular in the Portugal side too.
Despite enjoying a very strong fitness record since his move to Stamford Bridge, there were actually fears that he would not be fit to feature against his former side, Wolves.
However, he started and scored in the 3-0 victory, although clearly not while at full fitness as he decided to pull out of Portugal duty.
Portugal v Hungary - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images
Portugal miss Pedro Neto as they lose 2-0 to Republic of Ireland
His international manager, Roberto Martinez, will likely not have been too happy with the decision, as he saw his side defeated 2-0 by the Republic of Ireland in their World Cup qualifier.
The game was notable due to Cristiano Ronaldo’s red card in the second half, with him risking a suspension that carries into the tournament.
Portugal had the likes of Joao Felix, Bernardo Silva and Goncalo Ramos all available to try and score the goals, but now will likely need to find a result in their final group game against Armenia to secure automatic qualification.
The Blues meanwhile will be working with Neto to ensure he is fit for when they return to action next weekend in Burnley as they look to keep the pressure on Arsenal at the top of the table.
Pedro Neto and Alejandro Garnacho celebrate Chelsea goal
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Neto in fierce battle for right-wing spot at Chelsea
The winger will also not want to miss a second of action due to the fight he is in with Estevao Willian for a place in the side.
Maresca has been keen to protect Estevao, however it is getting harder to leave one of the most exciting players at the club on the bench every week.
Neto’s brilliance is all that is holding back Estevao at the moment, although there is an argument that both could start if the Portugal star moves over to the left of attack.
Alejandro Garnacho seems to be locking down the left-wing position with his recent performances, with competition at the highest its been for a while out wide at Stamford Bridge.