21/05/2026
BREAKING:
Neymar suffers a moderate right calf edema after Santos vs Coritiba and will need about one week of rehabilitation, yet Carlo Ancelotti still included him in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad. The race is now on for him to be fit before June 11.
But if we’re being honest, João Pedro deserved a place ahead of either Neymar or Gabriel Martinelli based on CURRENT form.
Why João Pedro should have been selected:
João Pedro this season: • 20 goals across all competitions
• More clinical in front of goal
• Younger, sharper, and fully fit
• Constant pressing and work rate for 90 minutes
• Can play as striker, second striker, or wide forward
Meanwhile: Neymar
• Still returning from multiple injuries
• Has barely played consistently since 2023
• Now battling another calf injury before the World Cup
Reuters +1 Gabriel Martinelli
• Strong player, but his end product this season has been inconsistent
• João Pedro offered better goal numbers and finishing form this campaign
Even reports around Brazil’s squad announcement described João Pedro’s omission as surprising after his strong season.
Carlo Ancelotti clearly trusted experience and big names, but football should also reward form.
João Pedro earned that call-up.
Sometimes reputation gets picked over performance.