Chelsea star Joao Pedro sidelined from Brazil squad by knee injury

Chelsea striker Joao Pedro has been removed from the Brazilian national team lineup following a knee injury, the Brazilian Football Federation confirmed. The twenty-four-year-old sustained the untimely injury during a recent domestic clash against Hull City. This setback completely derails his anticipated return to the international stage under national team manager Carlo Ancelotti, after previously missing out on the World Cup roster.

The versatile number nine has been a pivotal attacking force for the Blues, netting an impressive twenty goals across all competitions throughout the current campaign. According to Brazilian sports media outlet Globo, national team selectors have moved quickly to fill the vacant squad position. Fluminense midfielder Matheus Martinelli has been officially called up as his replacement ahead of Brazil's upcoming match against Australia on September 25th.