Joao Pedro has detailed the "frustrations" he has faced at being left out of the Brazil squad for the World Cup this summer, with the Chelsea star claiming he will now focus on cheering on his national team during the tournament held in North America.
The versatile forward was one of a few surprise calls made in Carlo Ancelotti's 26-man Brazil World Cup squad named on Monday night, which included a recall for Neymar.
That, however, has seen Pedro miss out despite a standout campaign for Chelsea, which has seen the 24-year-old score 20 goals and assist nine across all competitions for the Blues.
Joao Pedro Statement
After becoming one of the high-profile omissions from the Brazil squad announcement, Pedro released a statement on social media to give his thoughts on the situation.
He stated on his Instagram story: "I tried to give my best at all times. Unfortunately, it wasn’t possible to fulfill this dream of representing my country in a World Cup, but I remain calm and focused, as I always try to be.
“Joys and frustrations are part of football. From now on, I wish good luck to everyone who is there and I will be just another fan cheering for them to bring the sixth title home."
The Chelsea forward is one of several players who were expected to feature in the 2026 World Cup, but won't be doing so, as Eduardo Camavinga missed out on the France squad for this summer's tournament in another high-profile dismissal.
Pedro's national team career hasn't quite kickstarted yet, having made eight appearances for Selecao since his debut for the side back in 2023.
He was in and out of the squad during World Cup qualification, featuring four times out of a possible 12 appearances, though his appearances in the most recent March international break against both France and Croatia gave some hope that he would make the final 26-man squad.
It isn't to be for Pedro, at least for now, as he waits to make his first appearance for Brazil at a major tournament, with Ancelotti explaining the bold call to the national press during the unveiling of his squad.
It isn't to be for Pedro, at least for now, as he waits to make his first appearance for Brazil at a major tournament, with Ancelotti explaining the bold call to the national press during the unveiling of his squad.
- Luke Thrower
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