In London, João Pedro’s first weeks of the season had begun to look like a route back into Brazil’s plans. Chelsea’s forward has supplied three goals and three assists across his opening four Premier League matches, carrying the sharp form that earned him August’s Premier League Player of the Month award. Yet the international window has brought another interruption rather than a recall.
João Pedro injury changes Brazil plans
The 24-year-old has been ruled out of Brazil’s forthcoming friendlies against Australia and India through injury. The nature and seriousness of the physical problem have not been disclosed.
It is a second disappointment in succession for the Chelsea attacker after Carlo Ancelotti omitted him from Brazil’s World Cup squad. His lively start to the domestic campaign had appeared to strengthen his case for a return to the national side, but this time fitness has prevented it.
Brazil have called up Fluminense forward Martinelli as João Pedro’s replacement. The change was confirmed on Wednesday, 16 September, ahead of the next FIFA international period.
A Bournemouth decision still to come
Attention now turns to Chelsea’s weekend meeting with Bournemouth. Xabi Alonso must wait to discover whether João Pedro can recover in time for that fixture, or whether the forward will only be available again after the international break.
His absence would be a significant concern after such a productive opening month. João Pedro has become an important figure in Alonso’s plans, and Chelsea will hope the injury proves short-lived as the season begins to gather pace across England and beyond.
SEO Title: João Pedro ruled out of Brazil friendlies with injury
SEO Description: Chelsea forward João Pedro will miss Brazil’s matches against Australia and India through injury, with Fluminense’s Martinelli called up as his replacement.
