Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup preparations have been thrown into absolute chaos following an injury update on Neymar, but it could open the door perfectly for Joao Pedro.
Joao Pedro’s omission from Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad stands as one of the most shocking international snubs of the year. The 24-year-old forward enjoyed an absolutely glittering debut campaign at Stamford Bridge, scoring an outstanding 20 goals in 49 appearances across all competitions, as well as winning Chelsea Men’s Player of the Season.
Even Carlo Ancelotti failed to give a good enough response when answering questions on why the Chelsea man was missing from his squad.
The news left Chelsea supporters entirely bewildered, but there could be a silver lining for Pedro.
Chelsea should have given Joao Felix more time… 🪄
45 G/A in 47 games!
Neymar could be set to miss the World Cup
According to reports over in Brazil, the news around Neymar ahead of the World Cup is very worrying.
The Brazilian underwent an MRI scan yesterday and reportedly left the clinic looking very concerned and emotional.
Carlo Ancelotti’s staff suspect that Santos may have hidden the true seriousness of the injury, describing it only as a “small fluid build-up” in his calf.
Neymar is already confirmed to miss the friendly matches against Panama and Egypt.
DISCUSS: Gabriel Jesus as cover for Joao Pedro next season
Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus holding medal
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images For Premier League
The chances of Joao Pedro getting a World Cup call-up
Neymar’s calf injury during training camp has completely reopened the door for Joao Pedro’s World Cup dream.
However, the competition is fierce. Instead of Pedro, Brazil’s coaching staff could easily turn to alternative attacking options left out of the initial squad, such as Tottenham’s Richarlison, if they opt for familiarity, or emerging domestic starlets who can seamlessly fit into the Selecao’s tournament plans.
But one thing is for certain, no one can rival Pedro for numbers this season, who has been left out of the squad for this summer’s competition.
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