The race to potentially replace Neymar in Brazil’s World Cup squad has officially narrowed down to a straight shootout, as Joao Pedro’s situation becomes a bit clearer.
Joao Pedro’s omission from Brazil’s 26-man World Cup squad sent shockwaves through Chelsea.
However, a dramatic twist has thrown a curveball in the Selecao camp. Just a day after his celebratory call-up, superstar Neymar suffered a grade two calf muscle strain during a final domestic appearance.
Brazil’s national team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, has confirmed the forward faces a tight two-to-three-week race against time, making him an absolute doubt for the tournament opener against Morocco on June 13.
While Neymar remains with the squad for medical evaluation, his heartbreak has suddenly opened a massive, emergency window for a devastated Joao Pedro to potentially salvage his World Cup dream.
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
Joao Pedro’s World Cup situation amid Neymar’s uncertainty
According to Estadao, Joao Pedro of Chelsea and Pedro of Flamengo are seen as options in case Neymar is cut from Brazil’s World Cup squad.
The national team’s technical committee will evaluate by June 12 whether or not Neymar can make it to the World Cup this summer.
This comes amid all the speculation about Joao Pedro’s future at Chelsea as well, with Barcelona looking to bring him to the Nou Camp.
Chelsea should have given Joao Felix more time… 🪄
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Is Joao Pedro missing the World Cup a bad thing?
A World Cup call-up for Joao Pedro is a double-edged sword for Chelsea. Staying behind would be ideal for Xabi Alonso, allowing the forward a full pre-season to master the new system and rest after a gruelling campaign.
However, going carries major risks. While playing on the world stage fulfills a lifelong dream, it brings immense physical exhaustion and anxiety about injury.
Furthermore, if Pedro replicates his stellar Chelsea form for Brazil, his global stock will skyrocket, inevitably attracting vultures from Europe’s elite and making it significantly harder for Chelsea to fend off massive summer transfer bids.
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