Injury Blow: Chelsea’s Estêvão Ruled Out of 2026 World Cup

Chelsea forward Estêvão has been left off Brazil’s 55-man preliminary squad for the 2026 World Cup after suffering a serious thigh muscle injury on April 18. Medical teams from both Brazil and Chelsea could not guarantee his full recovery in time, ending hopes of a maiden World Cup appearance. The 19-year-old striker was spotted visibly dejected upon arriving at Palmeiras for treatment last week. Despite Estêvão’s absence, veteran Neymar secured a spot on the expanded list as he chases his fourth World Cup. Final 26-man squads must now be selected from this pool by FIFA’s May 11 deadline.

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