Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has responded to his omission from Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad, saying he will continue supporting the team despite his disappointment.
Chelsea striker Joao Pedro has spoken publicly after being left out of Brazil’s final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
The announcement of Brazil’s 26-man squad sparked widespread debate, with several high-profile names missing out despite strong seasons at club level.
Brazil’s official squad for the 2026 World Cup 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/WiNiE5Lhic
— B/R Football (@brfootball) May 18, 2026
While veterans such as Thiago Silva and Antony were omitted, Neymar secured a place in the squad after convincing Ancelotti of his improved fitness ahead of the tournament.
Joao Pedro was one of the notable absentees, despite enjoying an impressive campaign with Chelsea in which he scored 15 Premier League goals and featured in Brazil’s recent friendly matches.
Videos shared online showed the emotional reaction from Pedro’s family as they watched the squad announcement and realised the forward had not been selected for the tournament.
Despite the disappointment, the 24-year-old responded with maturity and composure in a statement shared online shortly after the announcement.
“I tried to give my best at all times,” Pedro wrote. “Unfortunately, it wasn’t possible to fulfil this dream of representing my country in a World Cup, but I remain calm and focused, as I always try to be.”
🚨🇧🇷 João Pedro statement after being left out of the World Cup.
“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… pic.twitter.com/1cSIYTbqAl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 18, 2026
The Chelsea forward also pledged his support for Brazil during the competition, saying he would now cheer on the Seleção “like any other fan” as they pursue a record-extending sixth World Cup title.
