Chelsea Hit by Joao Pedro Injury Blow as Brazil Call-Up Ends Early

Chelsea striker Joao Pedro has withdrawn from the Brazil squad after suffering an injury ahead of the country’s upcoming friendly matches against Australia and India.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced on Wednesday that Fluminense forward Martinelli has been called up to replace the Chelsea attacker.

No details were provided about the type or severity of Joao Pedro’s injury.

The setback comes after the striker was recalled to the Brazil squad following his unexpected exclusion from Carlo Ancelotti’s team for the 2026 World Cup.

Joao Pedro has been in strong form for Chelsea this season, registering three goals in six appearances in all competitions.

His early-season performances also earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award for August. He scored two goals and supplied two assists in Chelsea’s first two league fixtures, becoming the club’s first recipient of the individual award since Cole Palmer in September 2024.

Chelsea have not yet issued an official confirmation regarding Joao Pedro’s injury. The forward featured for the entire 90 minutes and scored in the 2-2 draw against Hull last weekend.

The timing of the injury is also a concern for Chelsea, with the Blues due to play Brentford on Friday before the international break.

Joao Pedro’s recall to Brazil had marked a chance to return to international football after he missed out on Ancelotti’s World Cup squad, despite being named Chelsea’s Player of the Season before the tournament.

Brazil will face Australia and India later this month in their first fixtures since their World Cup last-16 elimination by Norway.

With Joao Pedro ruled out, Martinelli will now link up with Ancelotti’s squad ahead of the international fixtures.

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