João Pedro’s return to the Brazil squad has been interrupted before the international break has even begun.
The Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed that the Chelsea forward has been withdrawn through injury, with Fluminense midfielder Martinelli called up by Carlo Ancelotti as his replacement.
The setback removes João Pedro from Brazil’s upcoming programme against Australia and India.
Brazil are scheduled to face Australia twice, on 25 and 29 September, before meeting India on 3 October. João Pedro had originally been included in the squad for those fixtures.
From recall to withdrawal
The call-up had brought João Pedro back into Brazil’s plans for the September-October international window.
Chelsea had also confirmed his selection before the CBF announced the injury withdrawal.
That return will now have to wait.
The CBF has confirmed the injury but has not specified its precise nature or severity in the official material supporting the withdrawal.
That leaves Chelsea facing an immediate question over when one of their attackers will be available again.
Chelsea now wait for clarity
João Pedro had opened the new Premier League season strongly, giving his Brazil recall added weight.
His withdrawal changes the picture for both club and country.
Brazil have moved quickly by bringing Martinelli into the squad, but Chelsea will now monitor the situation closely as they await clearer information on João Pedro’s condition.
What is confirmed is straightforward: João Pedro will miss Brazil’s upcoming friendlies, and Martinelli has taken his place in Ancelotti’s squad.
The unanswered question is how long the injury keeps the Chelsea forward out.
Until further official medical information emerges, that remains unresolved.
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