Endrick’s Loan Move to Lyon: A Strategic Career Step

According to Globo Esporte, Real Madrid has reached a preliminary agreement to loan young forward Endrick to Lyon following extensive negotiations. Currently positioned seventh in the Ligue 1 standings and managed by Paulo Fonseca, Lyon successfully outmaneuvered competition from Manchester United and Aston Villa, who were exploring late loan options. The Red Devils sought to secure Endrick after the injury to Benjamin Sesko, but their overtures came too late, as Endrick had already decided on Lyon. He views this opportunity as a chance to reclaim his form, aiming for regular playing time and a starting position that could enhance his prospects for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad.

Real Madrid acquired Endrick from Palmeiras in 2022 for a fee that could rise to €60 million (£53 million/$70 million), with high expectations that he would follow in the footsteps of notable Brazilian exports like Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo. However, his transition to Europe has faced challenges. During his debut season under Carlo Ancelotti, he demonstrated potential by scoring seven goals in 37 appearances. Unfortunately, his second season has been marred by injuries and fierce competition. A hamstring issue sidelined him for the Club World Cup and the initial months of the season, leading to limited playing time upon his return, with only 11 minutes of league action recorded so far in the 2025-26 season.

“Of course, I’d like him to have played already,” acknowledged Real Madrid’s coach. “But the situations in our recent matches have been very tight since Endrick returned. I hope he can get those minutes soon. He’s training well, he’s ready, but the right moment has to come.”

The loan agreement with Lyon is expected to be finalized as the January transfer window approaches. Both clubs have consented to a mid-season recall clause, allowing Real Madrid to retrieve Endrick in case of an injury crisis. Negotiations reportedly commenced in mid-October, and sources close to the player indicate that Endrick is enthusiastic about the move, having already begun house hunting in Lyon, suggesting that personal terms have been settled and only formalities remain.

For Lyon, this acquisition represents a significant boost, particularly as the team has struggled to find the back of the net, with Czech forward Pavel Sulc leading their scoring chart with a mere five goals.

Real Madrid does not intend to sever ties with Endrick permanently. The club views the loan to Lyon as a critical component of his development, reminiscent of how they managed Dani Carvajal’s early career during his loan to Bayer Leverkusen. Sporting director Juni Calafat, who facilitated the original transfer from Palmeiras, remains confident in Endrick’s potential in Spain. Initially, the club preferred to loan him to a team within La Liga, which would have facilitated his integration into Alonso’s squad. Additionally, the forward is on the cusp of obtaining a Spanish passport, making a domestic loan more attractive. However, Endrick prioritized an international move that promised consistent playing time.

Carlo Ancelotti, now the head coach of the Brazil national team, emphasized the necessity for Endrick to gain playing minutes in order to solidify his position.

“It’s important for Endrick to start playing again,” the Italian coach stated in an interview with Placar. “I spoke with him at the start of the season. He was injured, but now he’s fine. He needs to consider with his team what’s best, communicate with the club, and decide what suits him.”

For Endrick, this transfer could prove pivotal in his career. Lyon offers a conducive environment away from the intense spotlight associated with Real Madrid’s prestigious reputation. Here, he can work on regaining his sharpness through regular game time. If everything unfolds as planned, the young Brazilian will return to Spain next summer revitalized and ready to compete for a place in Real Madrid’s starting XI.