Carlo Ancelotti has expressed regret to Joao Pedro after the Chelsea forward was left out of Brazil’s World Cup squad. The Italian tactician admitted that several players had done enough to merit inclusion, but he ultimately chose to rely on experience, including the much-anticipated return of Neymar.

Ancelotti explains tough Brazil selection calls

Even though Pedro enjoyed an outstanding Premier League season, Ancelotti preferred to pick more seasoned players for Brazil’s squad for the upcoming World Cup. Among the biggest talking points was Neymar’s return to international duty, despite his ongoing struggles with fitness over the last three years. The Brazil coach conceded that many players would feel hard done by, with Pedro considered one of the most unfortunate absentees given his excellent form in England.

'I'm sorry'

Following the official squad announcement, Ancelotti acknowledged that his final decisions would inevitably disappoint some players. He offered a public apology to Pedro for excluding him from the World Cup roster.

“Some of the players who were with us this year won’t 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 sad for Joao Pedro. Considering the season he had in Europe, he probably deserved to be on this list, but unfortunately, after careful consideration and respect for all, we decided to go with another player. I truly feel sorry for Joao Pedro and everyone else who missed out.”

Bittersweet Player of the Season accolade

Just hours after missing out on a place in the national team, Chelsea announced that Pedro had been voted the club’s Player of the Season. The Brazilian, who joined the Blues from Brighton in a £60 million transfer last summer, won a commanding 60 per cent of the fan vote, finishing ahead of midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.

The 24-year-old has been a standout performer for Chelsea, netting 15 goals and contributing five assists in the Premier League. With those numbers, he became only the sixth player in club history – after the likes of Eden Hazard and Diego Costa – to register 20 goal involvements in his maiden top-flight season. Across all competitions, his total contribution climbs to an impressive 25 goal involvements.

Focus returns to club duties

Pedro will now look to conclude the campaign strongly with Chelsea after being left out of Brazil’s World Cup squad. The Blues are preparing for their last two Premier League fixtures, beginning with a clash against Tottenham, followed by an away trip to Sunderland, as they aim to secure European qualification for next season.