Brazil: João Pedro ruled out

Martinelli called up to replace him

World Today at 19:21

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Brazil: João Pedro ruled out

João Pedro will not take part in Brazil’s upcoming matches. The Chelsea forward, who is carrying an injury, has been withdrawn from Carlo Ancelotti’s squad and replaced by Martinelli, the Fluminense midfielder.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) officially confirmed the change on Wednesday, September 16. Martinelli joins the Seleção squad for the upcoming matches against Australia and India. It is his first call-up to the senior national team.

João Pedro injured during match against Hull

João Pedro’s physical issue dates back to last Saturday’s match against Hull City in the Premier League. The Chelsea forward was injured after falling following an aerial duel. He nevertheless continued the match and scored one of his team’s goals in the 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge.

After the match, João Pedro continued to feel pain and underwent medical examinations. Several Brazilian reports have mentioned a knee problem, but the CBF has not provided a detailed medical diagnosis or specified how long he will be unavailable.

His absence comes after João Pedro had made a strong start to his Premier League season. After four matchdays, the Chelsea forward had scored three goals and provided three assists, according to Stats Perform data.

Martinelli discovers the Seleção

To replace João Pedro, Carlo Ancelotti called up Martinelli. Aged 24 and a Fluminense player, the midfielder had never previously been called up to Brazil’s senior national team.

His arrival completes the squad selected for the upcoming matches involving the Seleção. Brazil will face Australia and then India during this international window.

A little more information on João Pedro’s injury situation.

I’m told the issue is a minor one. João Pedro felt some discomfort in his knee during the Hull City game, and while it is not considered a serious injury, Xabi Alonso does not want to take any unnecessary risks with… pic.twitter.com/Cul6u7RvHC
— V.R (@Humphrey_Pato) September 16, 2026

This withdrawal comes after Ancelotti had selected him to return to the Brazil squad. The Chelsea forward will now have to focus on his recovery before he can return to action and be considered for another call-up to the Brazil team.