Chelsea manager, Enzo Maresca has revealed that forward, Pedro Neto is very sad following the passing of his Portugal team-mate Diogo Jota.
Recall that the Liverpool forward tragically died alongside his younger brother Andre after a car crash in Spain.
Speaking at his pre-match press interview ahead of Chelsea’s FIFA Club World Cup quarter-final with Palmeiras on Saturday, Maresca also revealed that Neto has had a tough time since hearing the news of Jota’s death.
Maresca also said that the Portuguese may be excused from the squad that will take on the Brazilian side on Saturday.
“Pedro [Neto] is very sad, probably more than sad. We are close to support him in this moment,” Maresca said.
“It’s completely Pedro’s decision [if he wants to play vs Palmeiras]. I had a chat this morning. We support any decision he takes.”
Neto and Jota were both in the Portugal squad that won the UEFA Nations League trophy some weeks ago.
The pair were very close friends, having been team-mates at Wolves in the 2019-20 season.
