Photo by Alexander Canillas/MB Media/Getty Images
Photo by Alexander Canillas/MB Media/Getty Images
Joao Pedro is set to spend the international break at Cobham after pulling out of Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for the upcoming fixtures.
Pedro has been on a mission to prove the former Chelsea manager was wrong to not take him to the 2026 World Cup, and has started the season in electric form.
He was named the August Player of the Month in the Premier League, but doubt has now arisen over whether he will be able to feature in tomorrow night’s fixture against Brentford.
Todd Boehly graphic
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Joao Pedro injury update
Simon Phillips has shared that Pedro has sustained a new knee injury during the Blues’ draw with Hull City, where he was still able to find the net.
He stated on his Substack that the withdrawal from the Brazil squad is seen more as a precaution, with the injury deemed to not be too serious.
He said: “SPTC Sources have heard that Pedro is nursing a new knee injury. However, at this moment it is not believed to be anything too serious, although checks and examinations are being made. With any injury, things can always change.
“But the initial review is that it’s more as a precaution rather than anything too bad. Sources understand it happened during Chelsea’s last game, but Pedro continued to play through some discomfort. Decision makers believe it’s best that he stays at Cobham for further checks.
“Pedro will be a real miss regardless, even if he’s just out for one game. But there will be no risks taken with him, hence him being withdrawn from the Brazil squad. Chelsea know his importance to the team and they need to keep him as fit as possible.”
Chelsea FC v Hull City - Premier League 2026/27
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An injury to one of Chelsea’s established front three was always going to be a blow considering how free-scoring they have been at the start of the season.
Pedro, alongside Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers have helped mask over a number of issues at the back for the Blues this season, but Xabi Alonso is going to have to find a new solution for Friday’s game against Brentford.
Danny Welbeck is likely to come into the starting side, with him enjoying three goals in his first two starts as a Chelsea player.
He boasts an impressive record against the Bees, with Chelsea looking to bounce back after not picking up a victory in their last two Premier League games.