Joao Pedro has played himself into Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup thinking following his move to Chelsea last summer.
The Brazil manager will be keeping a close eye on the Brazilians at Stamford Bridge ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with Andrey Santos and Estevao Willian both also enjoying fine seasons.
Estevao’s place in the squad is already confirmed. He will play a key role in attack in the United States, while Santos will be hoping to be named in the list of midfielders.
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Joao Pedro is Brazil’s starting striker for the World Cup
It looks as if he is going to be joined by his Chelsea teammate too. According to AS, Ancelotti currently believes Pedro will lead the line for Brazil at the World Cup.
The Blues duo are likely to be joined by Vini Jr in attack, producing a very promising attack on paper ahead of the tournament.
Other contenders to play up front for Brazil includes Brentford’s Igor Thiago and Manchester United star Matheus Cunha.
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No Brazilian has scored more goals in the Premier League across the last two seasons than Pedro, although it is fair to say he has significantly lifted his game since his move to Stamford Bridge.
He has benefitted from playing alongside better players too. Lots has been made of how strong the partnership of Pedro and Cole Palmer this season.
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The amount of goals he has scored throughout this campaign is even more impressive when taking into account he had not regularly featured as a number nine before his move to West London.
Gary Lineker doesn’t think Chelsea planned for Pedro to be their striker, likely because of the addition of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town.
A combination of fitness woes and poor form has seen internal concern at Chelsea about Delap, and pressure is on him to deliver ahead of the summer transfer window.
The club have already secured the summer signing of Emanuel Emegha from Strasbourg, and their transfer window history suggests they are likely to look to invest further over the summer.
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