Endrick is considered one of the greatest striker talents – and yet the young Brazilian is currently in a difficult phase at Real Madrid. A loan in January could now bring the decisive turning point.
In the summer of 2024, Endrick moved from Palmeiras Sao Paulo to the Royals for almost 50 million euros.
Although he is considered one of the greatest striker talents in Brazil, the investment has so far only been paid off to a limited extent for Real Madrid.
Even in his debut season under Carlo Ancelotti, Endrick had to realize that the leap to Europe would not be an easy task. In 37 appearances, he scored seven goals and assisted one, but he only started eight times – and even then he was hardly on the pitch for more than 20 minutes on average.
Setback for Endrick
In mid-May there was the next setback: In the league game against FC Sevilla, Endrick injured his right thigh and therefore also missed the Club World Cup.
When Xabi Alonso took over as coach last summer, the situation escalated further. Gonzalo Garcia moved up to become the first replacement for Kylian Mbappé, and Endrick was once again faced with limited opportunities to play.
167 days after his last game, he finally returned to the field. In the game against Valencia, Endrick was substituted for Mbappé in the 79th minute and was given the chance to prove himself under Alonso after months.
Alonso explains Endrick situation
Alonso himself explained the situation of the talent at a press conference: “I would have liked him to have had more playing time, but since his recovery the schedule has been very tight and there has been no opportunity for him to play.”
Alonso makes it clear that his decision does not result from a lack of appreciation.
Xabi Alonso at the press conference
In Madrid, Endrick’s development is now being critically reflected on. While players like Vinicíus and Rodrygo were gradually introduced to European football, Endrick came directly from Brazil as a regular player and key player in his national team. The high expectations made his adaptation at Real Madrid more difficult.
Loan as an opportunity?
The lack of playing time not only affects his development, but also jeopardizes his chances of a place in the Brazilian World Cup squad. He was not nominated by Carlo Ancelotti for the games against South Korea and Japan in October.
In order to give the young striker match practice, Real Madrid is now reportedly willing to approve a loan in the winter transfer period, according to media reports.
A final sale is out of the question, as Endrick is seen as part of the Royals’ long-term project.
Endrick in demand
Several clubs have already expressed their interest in Endrick, with Olympique Lyon being the favorite. With the French team, he would have a good chance of securing a regular place straight away and getting regular match practice.
Olympique Marseille and Bayer Leverkusen are also said to be interested in a loan. Real Madrid is leaving the decision about his immediate future to the player in order to give him responsibility for the next career step.
January will be decisive for Endrick. Whether a loan to Lyon, Marseille or another club materializes remains open.
What is clear is: He needs playing time to develop in the best possible way.
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