João Pedro’s recall marks a significant change in Brazil’s attack. The Chelsea forward was omitted from the World Cup squad, despite strong expectations around his selection, but has made an immediate impact at club level.
He has been directly involved in four goals across three Premier League appearances, and Ancelotti watched closely as he faced former club Brighton at Stamford Bridge last month. That personal observation appears to have strengthened the case for a return.
For João Pedro, the call-up offers a route from frustration to redemption. His family had gathered to watch the previous squad announcement, only to see his name missing.
Cunha’s omission is more complicated. The Manchester United forward scored three goals in five World Cup matches, including one in Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Scotland, but he has yet to score in the current Premier League season.
That contrast appears to have influenced Ancelotti’s decision. The omission is not necessarily a permanent verdict on Cunha, but it reflects the demands of a new selection cycle after Brazil’s defeat by Norway in the round of 16.
Ancelotti has also called up a number of Premier League-based players, including Vitor Reis, Jair Cunha, Gabriel Magalhães, Bruno Guimarães, Andrey Santos, Estêvão Willian and Rayan. The group points to a squad being refreshed around younger options and players in strong club environments.
The two matches against Australia later this month will show whether João Pedro can turn his recall into a starting role - and whether Cunha’s absence becomes a brief warning or the beginning of a deeper attacking rethink.