Supporters of Chelsea have voted Brazilian forward João Pedro as the club’s Men’s Player of the Season for 2025-2026. The Premier League side confirmed the result of its online poll this week, with Pedro taking more than 60% of the votes.
The 24-year-old joined Chelsea ahead of the season and finished the campaign with 20 goals in all competitions. The announcement came on the same day Brazil’s national team released its World Cup squad.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti addressed his roster choices at a press conference. He said the final 26-man group was selected after considering the physical demands of European club football, including match schedules, travel and climate differences. Ancelotti stated that individual player roles were also weighed in the decision. He acknowledged Pedro’s production in England and said the staff found the choice difficult, but confirmed another player was picked for the forward position.
Following the squad news, Pedro posted a statement on Instagram addressing the omission. “I tried to give my best at all times,” he wrote. “Unfortunately, it wasn't possible to fulfil this dream of representing my country in a World Cup, but I remain calm and focused, as I always try to be. Joys and frustrations are part of football.” He added that he will continue to focus on Chelsea and will support Brazil as “just another fan cheering for them to bring the sixth title home.”