Chelsea forward João Pedro has expressed disappointment after being left out of Brazil’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following an emotional buildup to the announcement that was captured in a viral family video.
The clip, widely circulated on social media, showed family members and close associates gathered together as they watched Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti announce the squad list live, hoping Pedro’s name would be included. However, the Chelsea attacker was ultimately omitted from the final 26-man squad.
Reports in Brazil claimed Ancelotti and officials of the Brazilian Football Confederation prepared two separate squad lists ahead of the announcement — one featuring Pedro and another including Neymar.
According to the reports, Pedro was considered a standby option amid concerns over Neymar’s fitness after the veteran forward reportedly experienced calf discomfort during Santos’ recent match against Coritiba.
After Neymar was declared fit enough for selection, Ancelotti reportedly opted to include the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star instead.
Speaking on the selection decision, Ancelotti admitted Pedro had done enough to merit consideration after an impressive campaign in Europe.
“It was very difficult to choose these 26 players. The competition in this country is very, very high,” Ancelotti said.
“We’re very sorry about João Pedro, because with the season he had in Europe, he deserved to be on this list. But unfortunately, we chose another player.”
Pedro later responded to the setback in a statement shared on social media, saying he accepted the disappointment calmly.
“I tried to give my best at all times. Unfortunately, it wasn’t possible to fulfil this dream of representing my country in a World Cup,” he said.
The Chelsea attacker enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career, scoring 20 goals and providing nine assists across competitions. His performances had fuelled expectations that he would secure a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad after earning several appearances for the national team over the past two years.
