Martinelli Called Into Brazil Squad as João Pedro Replacement

Overview

• Carlo Ancelotti named Martinelli to the Brazil squad on Wednesday as an injury replacement for Chelsea forward João Pedro, who was cut because of a fitness problem.
• This is Martinelli’s first senior call-up after recovering from a grade‑3 rectus femoris injury suffered in April and returning to availability for Fluminense.
• The 26‑player list mixes nine recent World Cup participants with several newcomers as Ancelotti uses the friendlies to broaden his midfield and attacking choices.
• Brazil will play two matches in Australia, in Townsville and Brisbane, followed by a fixture in Calcutta on October 3 as formal trials for the new cycle.
• Martinelli’s selection highlights how injuries are reshaping opportunities in the squad and gives him a chance to stake a claim for a regular role while Ancelotti evaluates alternatives for 2030.