‘Deserved To Be On The List’: Brazil Coach Sorry For João Pedro’s World Cup Snub

Ancelotti Regrets Omitting João Pedro From Brazil World Cup Squad

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has apologized to Chelsea striker João Pedro for leaving him out of the national team’s World Cup squad. The Italian manager selected more experienced players and included the return of Neymar despite the forward’s recent fitness challenges.

Ancelotti acknowledged that several players who appeared for Brazil during the year would feel disappointed by the final choices. He singled out Pedro’s form in England as a factor that made the decision difficult while still opting for alternatives.

Pedro earned Chelsea’s Player of the Season award shortly after the squad announcement, receiving over 60 percent of fan votes ahead of teammates Enzo Fernandez and Moisés Caicedo. The 24-year-old recorded 15 goals and five assists in the Premier League this season, reaching 20 goal involvements in his first top-flight campaign for the club.

Pedro will remain with Chelsea for the final Premier League fixtures against Tottenham and Sunderland as the team seeks European qualification next season.