João Pedro withdrawn from Brazil squad for September-October friendlies against Australia and India

João Pedro has withdrawn from Brazil's squad for the September-October international window friendlies against Australia and India, the Brazilian federation said on Wednesday. The CBF added that Fluminense forward Martinelli will replace the Chelsea striker.

Pedro was unexpectedly left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s 2026 World Cup squad but had been named in the most recent call-up for the September-October international window. The federation did not specify the nature of João Pedro’s ailment. He has scored three goals in six appearances across all competitions so far this season and was selected Premier League Player of the Month in August.

The striker sustained a knee injury after landing awkwardly from an aerial duel; although he remained on the pitch, the pain continued and he later underwent medical examinations. The club statement said he will undergo scans that will confirm his return timeline.

Chelsea’s early-season numbers were strong: the 24-year-old has three goals and three assists in Chelsea’s opening four games, placing him atop the league for direct goal contributions. He played and scored in a 2-2 draw against Hull last weekend.

“Fluminense player Martinelli was called up this Wednesday by coach Carlo Ancelotti for the Brazilian National Team’s friendlies against Australia and India, in this next FIFA Date. The player will replace Chelsea striker Joao Pedro, who is injured,” The CBF confirmed the news on their official website. Chelsea face Brentford in their final fixture before the international break on Friday.

Brazil’s matches against Australia and India will be their first since their unfortunate early departure from the World Cup, where they lost to Norway in the round of 16. Despite being crowned Chelsea’s club player of the season, João Pedro was not selected for the 2026 World Cup; Neymar was picked but made only two substitute appearances.

Martinelli has been called into Brazil’s squad for the friendlies at the close of the month, while Chelsea’s next confirmed fixture is against Brentford on Friday before the international break.