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Carlo Ancelotti has apologized to Joao Pedro after leaving the Chelsea striker out of Brazil’s World Cup squad.
The Italian admitted several players deserved selection as the Seleção boss opted for experience, including the return of Neymar.
Ancelotti addresses tough decisions on Brazil squad
Despite Pedro’s impressive campaign in the Premier League, Ancelotti opted for more experienced options for Brazil’s squad for the upcoming World Cup. One of the most notable selections was the return of Neymar, who has struggled with fitness over the past three years. Ancelotti acknowledged that several players would feel disappointed by the final squad list, with Pedro widely regarded as one of the most unfortunate omissions following his strong form in England.
‘I’m sorry’
After announcing the squad, Ancelotti admitted the selection process left some players unlucky. The Brazil boss publicly apologized to Pedro after leaving him out for the upcoming World Cup.
“Some of the players who were with us this year will not be happy with this list,” Ancelotti told reporters. “I’m sorry and I want to thank everyone who was with us. Of course we are sorry for Joao Pedro. For the season he had in Europe, he probably deserved to be on this list, but unfortunately, with all possible awareness and respect, we chose another player. I feel very sorry for Joao Pedro and all the others.”
Bittersweet Player of the Season honors
Just hours after the disappointment of the international snub, Chelsea confirmed that Pedro had been named the club’s player of the season. The former Brighton man, who arrived in a £60m deal last summer, dominated the fans’ vote and secured over 60 per cent of the total to finish ahead of midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.
The 24-year-old has been a revelation for the Blues with 15 goals and five assists in the Premier League alone. In doing so, he became only the sixth player in Chelsea history – after legends such as Eden Hazard and Diego Costa – to reach 20 goals involved in his debut top-flight game for the club. Across all competitions, that number rises to an impressive 25 goals.
The focus shifts back to club football
Pedro will now finish the season with Chelsea before the summer break after being left out of Brazil’s World Cup plans. The Blues now prepare for their final two Premier League games starting against Tottenham and then a trip to Sunderland as they look to qualify for European competition next season.
