Joao Pedro has been forced to withdraw from the Brazil squad after suffering an injury, dealing another setback to the Chelsea forward ahead of the upcoming international break.
Brazil confirmed on Wednesday that the Chelsea striker will miss this month’s international fixtures after being ruled out through injury.
Carlo Ancelotti has moved quickly to fill the vacancy, with Fluminense midfielder Matheus Martinelli receiving his call-up to the senior national team.
The decision comes after Pedro featured for the full 90 minutes in Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Hull last week.
The forward also made a telling contribution in that match, scoring Chelsea’s second-half equaliser as the Blues fought back to claim a point.
However, his latest injury means Pedro will now miss Brazil’s upcoming international commitments.
Brazil’s national team confirmed the change in a statement on X.
“Martinelli was called up on this Wednesday (16) by coach Carlo Ancelotti for the Brazil National Team’s friendlies against Australia and India, in the upcoming FIFA international window.
“The player will replace Chelsea striker João Pedro, who is injured.”
Martinelli now gets an opportunity to impress Ancelotti after being drafted into the squad as Pedro’s replacement.
For Chelsea, Pedro’s withdrawal comes at an important point in the club’s schedule.
The Blues are due to face Brentford on Friday night before players depart for international duty.
Pedro’s absence will therefore be something Chelsea will have to monitor closely as they prepare for another Premier League assignment.
The striker has been an important attacking option for the London club, making his latest injury particularly significant with another demanding stretch of fixtures ahead.
Brazil, meanwhile, will continue preparations for their two international friendlies against Australia and India during the upcoming FIFA international window.
Ancelotti will now have to work with Martinelli as he looks to maintain his plans for the national team’s latest matches.
Pedro’s withdrawal also represents a missed opportunity for the Chelsea forward to continue building his relationship with the Brazil setup under the experienced Italian coach.
The striker had just completed a full 90-minute performance for Chelsea and scored against Hull, but the injury has now forced him out of the squad.
Chelsea will first turn their attention to Brentford on Friday night, with the Premier League clash taking place before the international break.
Brazil will then prepare for their fixtures against Australia and India, while Pedro begins his recovery away from the national team camp.
For Martinelli, the situation presents a chance to step into the spotlight.
The Fluminense player has been handed an unexpected opportunity by Ancelotti, while Pedro will now hope his injury does not keep him sidelined for long.
With Chelsea and Brazil both entering important periods of their respective schedules, Pedro’s fitness will remain a key point of attention in the coming days.
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