Joao Pedro injury forces Carlo Ancelotti Brazil pull‑out

Joao Pedro has been forced to withdraw from Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil squad after sustaining an injury, a development that could weaken Chelsea ahead of their Friday night trip to Brentford. The report by KIERAN GILL for MAIL on 16 September 2026 confirms the striker's absence.

Premier League contribution

The 24‑year‑old has netted three goals and provided three assists in the Premier League this season, operating at the tip of a front three that includes Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers. His output has been a key part of Chelsea's attacking threat.

Brazil call‑up replacement

Brazil cited an "injury" as the reason for his withdrawal and have named Matheus Martinelli as his replacement. The exact nature of the problem has not been disclosed, leaving speculation about its seriousness.

Chelsea declined to comment when approached, while manager Xabi Alonso is set to address the striker's status at a pre‑Brentford press conference at 1.30 pm on Thursday.

Supporters hope the decision is precautionary, but the pull‑out raises doubts that Joao Pedro will feature on Friday. The Blues have not won at the Brentford Community Stadium since 2021.

Earlier in the week Chelsea trained at Cobham, with the first fifteen minutes of the session made public. Joao Pedro was absent from those early drills, as were Reece James and Moises Caicedo, who is nursing a calf issue.

Brazil's upcoming fixtures against Australia and India during the international break involve significant travel for England‑based players, including Chelsea youngster Estevao.

After the Brentford clash on Friday, Chelsea will not play again until a Saturday match against Bournemouth on 10 October, following a three‑week hiatus.