After being left out of Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad, Carlo Ancelotti failed to give a valid explanation for his decision.
Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man Brazil squad for the World Cup features major headlines, notably the return of all-time leading scorer Neymar. Meanwhile, Premier League figures like Gabriel Magalhaes, Bruno Guimaraes, and Casemiro secured their places.
However, the biggest shock comes from Chelsea, as Joao Pedro was left out of the squad despite an impressive individual season where he registered 15 goals and five assists in the Premier League.
In contrast, Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli made the final selection despite a far more underwhelming domestic campaign. Martinelli struggled for rhythm and regular goal contributions at the Emirates, scoring just one and assisting three in 29 Premier League appearances.
What do you make of Carlo Ancelotti leaving Joao Pedro out of his World Cup squad?🤔
Andrey Santos as well!
Chelsea duo Andrey Santos and Joao Pedro snubbed from Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad
Via – @FabrizioRomano
Carlo Ancelotti feels Joao Pedro was unlucky
After announcing Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad, Carlo Ancelotti failed to provide a valid reason for leaving Joao Pedro out, leaving more questions than answers.
“Then there are the individual characteristics of the players. Obviously, we were sad for João Pedro, because for the season he had in Europe, he probably deserved to be on this list.
“Unfortunately, with all possible awareness, with all possible respect, and with all possible competence, we chose other players. We are sorry for João Pedro, as for everyone else.”
This comes after Estevao Willian’s absence from Brazil’s World Cup squad due to injury, as well as Andrey Santos’ omission.
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Joao Pedro’s snub has good and bad repercussions for Chelsea
Brazil’s omission of Joao Pedro brings mixed news for Chelsea. The major benefit is that he gets a full, uninterrupted pre-season under Xabi Alonso, giving the new manager a crucial window to integrate his key forward into his tactical system from day one.
However, the downside is psychological. Missing out on the World Cup might make Pedro feel that a lack of Champions League football at Stamford Bridge is actively damaging his international career. If he believes he needs a higher platform to stay in the national team picture, it could increase the appeal of summer interest from clubs like Barcelona.
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