Since joining Chelsea last summer, Joao Pedro has worked his way into Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup plans.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti will be keeping a close eye on the Brazilians at Stamford Bridge ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with Andrey Santos and Estevao Willian also enjoying strong seasons.
Estevao already has his place in the squad locked in and is expected to play a big role in attack in the United States. Meanwhile, Santos will be hoping to earn a spot among the midfielders.
Over the past year, Pedro has scored goals against Brentford, Wolves and Aston Villa, while also impressing in matches against Manchester City and Arsenal. He has adapted well to Enzo Maresca’s system, showing an understanding of when to drop deep or make runs into the box.
His form hasn’t gone unnoticed back home. A post from Twitter account Brazilian Football claimed “Brazil loves him” after one of his goals this season.
Joao Pedro set to lead the line for Brazil at the World Cup
It looks like he’ll be joined by his Chelsea teammate, too. According to AS, Ancelotti now sees Pedro as Brazil’s starting striker for the World Cup.
The pair are expected to line up alongside Vini Jr in what should be an exciting attack on paper. Andrey Santos is already a lock for the squad, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see a few more Blues join them as well.
Other names in contention for the forward role include Brentford’s Igor Thiago and Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha.
No Brazilian has scored more Premier League goals over the last two seasons than Pedro, though he’s clearly taken his game up a notch since joining Stamford Bridge.
He has also benefited from playing alongside better players. Much has been made of how strong his partnership with Cole Palmer is this season.
It makes his goal tally even more impressive when you consider he wasn’t playing regularly as a number nine before moving to West London.
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